An individual can be charged with heroin possession without even being in direct physical contact with it. If the drug is found in their vehicle and/or in their home, they may be charged with possession. As long as it is assumed that someone has control over the drugs, they will be the one held responsible for the presence of it.
After being arrested for the possession, use, distribution, or sale of heroin, you could be facing stiff penalties. In fact, a guilty verdict could result in no less than two years in prison, even for first-time offenders.
In order to avoid the penalties that come with a conviction, contact Trentacosta & Associates. These are the basic penalties that can be enforced for various drug offenses related to heroin:
- First offense: heroin possession – 2 to 15 years in prison
- Second offense: heroin possession – 5 to 30 years in prison
- First offense: heroin distribution / intent to sell – 5 to 30 years in prison
- Second offense: heroin distribution / intent to sell – 10 to 40 years or life in prison
Drug Risk Reduction Programs
Georgia courts will sometimes allow a drug offender to enroll in a Drug Risk Reduction Program instead of spending time in jail. These programs are a way to provide treatment for those convicted hoping that they can be rehabilitated and therefore less likely to repeat the same crimes.
You should look into treatment programs in place of serving your sentence in jail if you have been convicted of a drug related offense.