Types of Drug Crimes in New York (2024)

Facing the fallout of a drug crime charge can be a terrifying ordeal. In this case, it’s important to reach out to an experienced drug crime lawyer who can help you identify your next steps and weigh your options. There are many different kinds of drug crimes, and understanding the types of drug crimes in New York may be beneficial to your defense strategy.

Types of Drug Crimes in New York

New York separates the different types of illegal drugs into five distinct categories known as schedules. Schedule I drugs carry the most severe penalties, and Schedule V drugs carry the least serious. Drug crime charges and sentences often depend on the schedule and quantity of the drug involved. Depending on these important factors, you could face different penalties for various kinds of drug crimes, such as:

• First-Degree Drug Possession: If you are caught with eight ounces or more of a narcotic drug, such as heroin, fentanyl, morphine, another type of opioid, or over 5,700 milligrams of methadone, you could face severe charges. First-degree drug possession is considered a Class A-I felony in New York, which carries a potential sentence of between eight years and 20 years in prison, as well as a fine of up to $100,000.
• Second-Degree Drug Possession: If you are caught with any of the following amounts of the listed drugs, you could be facing a Class A-II felony charge, which carries a potential sentence of between three years and 10 years in prison, as well as a fine of up to $50,000:
  • Four ounces or more of a narcotic.
  • Two ounces or more of methamphetamine.
  • 10 grams or more of a stimulant.
  • 25 milligrams or more of LSD.
  • 625 milligrams or more of a hallucinogen.
  • 25 grams or more of a hallucinogenic substance.
  • 2,880 milligrams or more of methadone.
• First-Degree Drug Selling: If you are caught with a substantial amount of narcotics totaling at least two ounces or at least 2,880 milligrams of methadone that you intended to sell, you could be facing a Class A-I felony charge.If you are caught selling any amount of illegal drugs within 1,000 feet of a school, daycare center, or school bus with children on it, you could be facing a Class B felony charge. This could mean a potential sentence of between two and nine years in prison and a possible fine of as much as $30,000.
• Manufacturing Methamphetamine: The very act of manufacturing any amount of methamphetamine carries a substantial sentence. Even possessing certain combinations of lab equipment and chemicals used to manufacture methamphetamine could result in a Class D felony, which carries a potential sentence of between one and two and a half years in prison, as well as a possible fine of $5,000.
• Drug Trafficking: Being involved in drug trafficking can be one of the most significant drug crimes you could be charged with. Drug trafficking is taken very seriously in New York. If you are found to be directing a drug network that exceeds $75,000 in yearly revenue or intend to do so, you could be facing a Class A-I felony with a minimum prison term of 15 years and a maximum of life.

FAQs

Q: What Are the Drug Laws in New York?

A: The drug laws in New York are intended to go after drug traffickers and drug manufacturers while charging most drug possessors with misdemeanor charges. The more illegal drugs you have in your possession, the more serious the charges and penalties will likely be. Marijuana has been substantially decriminalized in New York, with legal adults being allowed to possess up to three ounces of marijuana and up to 24 grams of concentrated cannabis for personal use.

Q: Is Drug Trafficking a Felony in New York?

A: Yes, drug trafficking is a serious felony in New York. Drug trafficking is one of the most dangerous drug crimes one can commit, and it carries significant penalties if a defendant is convicted. You can be charged with drug trafficking if you are caught with large amounts of certain illegal drugs in sufficient quantities to be suspected of trafficking. If you are found to be making over $75,000 in illegal drug revenue, you could face trafficking charges.

Q: What Is an A-1 Drug Felony in New York?

A: An A-1 drug felony in New York is a very serious drug charge that can result in significant amounts of prison time and a hefty fine. An A-1 drug felony charge is reserved for those who are caught with significant amounts of drugs like cocaine, heroin, or other narcotics in their possession, as well as drug traffickers. An A-1 felony charge can land you in prison for life in certain situations.

Q: What Are the Four Major Drugs That Are Associated with Crimes?

A: According to government sources, the four major drugs that are associated with major drug crimes in the United States are marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine. While many other types of drugs have criminal elements associated with them, these four have traditionally been the most frequently apparent in national drug crimes. Steadily, marijuana has been decriminalized in many U.S. states, including New York, but it is still highly illegal in other parts of the country.

Reach Out to an Experienced Drug Crime Lawyer Today

Facing drug charges can be a terrifying situation that you may not be prepared to handle alone. That’s why it is vital that you retain the services of an experienced drug crime lawyer who can help you determine how to proceed with your case. The legal team at The Vitaliano Law Firm is prepared to help you fight the charges against you by gathering the necessary evidence, launching an independent investigation, and working tirelessly to make sure you aren’t taken advantage of.

Reach out to learn more about how we can assist you with your drug crime case. The sooner you retain counsel, the sooner we can start developing your case.