Prescription drugs are medications legally prescribed by doctors to treat various health conditions. However, using these drugs can be illegal when misused. Misuse happens when someone takes a prescription drug without a prescription, takes a higher dose than prescribed or sells or gives the drug to someone else. This misuse can lead to addiction, health problems and legal issues. In Indiana, there are strict laws to prevent the illegal use of prescription drugs.
Prescription drug charges in Indiana
Common examples of prescription drug violations and their penalties are:
- Possession without a prescription: Someone caught with prescription drugs without a valid prescription. Possession of prescription drugs without a prescription can result in a Class A misdemeanor, which may lead to up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $5,000.
- Prescription fraud: This occurs when someone forges or alters a prescription to obtain drugs. It can also include using someone else’s prescription or lying to a doctor to get a prescription. If convicted, a person can face a Level 6 felony, which carries a sentence of six months to two and a half years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Trafficking: When someone sells or distributes prescription drugs. Trafficking charges can apply even if the person is giving the drugs away for free. Trafficking prescription drugs is a serious offense. Depending on the amount of drugs involved, it can be classified as a Level 2, 3, or 4 felonies. A Level 2 felony can result in 10 to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Doctor shopping: This involves visiting multiple doctors to obtain multiple prescriptions for the same drug. This can lead to a Level 6 felony charge, with penalties similar to those for prescription fraud.
- Manufacturing: This charge applies to those who produce prescription drugs illegally. It includes making counterfeit drugs or altering legitimate drugs to increase their potency. Manufacturing prescription drugs illegally is a Level 2 felony.
In addition to these penalties, those convicted of prescription drug charges may face other consequences, such as probation, mandatory drug treatment programs, and a permanent criminal record. This record can affect future employment opportunities, housing, and more.
Defending your rights
Misusing prescription drugs have legal risks that can have long-lasting effects on a person’s life. Considering the legal consequences of these serious charges, defendants often get the best results when they work with an attorney who has experience defending clients against prescription drug charges.