Methamphetamine Criminal Charges in St. Louis and St. Charles County
Methamphetamine, also known as Meth is one of the most common drug charges in St. Louis and St. Charles.
Methamphetamines come in many forms and may be ingested orally but they have become increasingly more common in crystalized form.
Crystalized Methamphetamine or Chrystal Meth, which has been popularized and portrayed in mainstream media through its appearance in popular television shows is known for its stimulating effect and is highly addictive.
Methamphetamine charges are taken very seriously in Missouri. The range of punishment often stretches from a D Felony all the way to an A felony, which carries a 10-year minimum sentence.
Fortunately, the drug charge lawyers at the Krupp law firm are experienced in dealing with the prosecution of Methamphetamine and know what to do in the situation.
Overview of Missouri Law on Methamphetamine Charges
Methamphetamine Possession: D Felony
Methamphetamines are typically considered a Schedule I Controlled Substance as defined by Missouri Law.
In Missouri, a person commits the offense of possession of a controlled substance if he or she knowingly possesses a controlled substance, except as authorized by Missouri Law.
The offense of possession of any controlled substance except thirty-five grams or less of marijuana or any synthetic cannabinoid is a class D felony.
Thus, possession of meth in any quantity may result in a D Felony charge.
Distribution of Methamphetamine: C to B Felony
In Missouri, a person commits the offense of delivery of a controlled substance if, except as authorized in this law he or she:
Knowingly distributes or delivers a controlled substance, attempts to distribute or deliver a controlled substance, knowingly possesses a controlled substance with the intent to distribute or deliver any amount of a controlled substance; knowingly permits a minor to purchase or transport illegally obtained controlled substances.
Except when the controlled substance is thirty-five grams or less of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid or as otherwise provided by law, the offense of delivery of a controlled substance is a class C felony.
The offense of delivery of a controlled substance is a class B felony if the delivery or distribution is any amount of a controlled substance except thirty-five grams or less of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid, to a person less than seventeen years of age who is at least two years younger than the defendant; or the person knowingly permits a minor to purchase or transport illegally obtained controlled substances.
Therefore, in Missouri, if you are accused of distributing any amount of methamphetamine to a minor less than seventeen yeas old who is at least two years younger than you, then you may be charged with the more severe B level felony which carries a considerably more harsh sentence than the regular distribution charge and contains a mandatory minimum prison sentence unlike the possession charge.
Distribution of a Methamphetamine in a Protected Location: A Felony
In Missouri, a person commits the offense of distribution of a controlled substance in a protected location if he or she knowingly distributes, sells, or delivers any controlled substance, except thirty-five grams or less of marijuana or synthetic cannabinoid, to a person with knowledge that that distribution, delivery or sale is: In, on, or within two thousand feet of, the real property comprising a public or private elementary, vocational, or secondary school, or on any school bus; or in, on, or within one thousand feet of, the real property comprising a public park, state park, county park, municipal park, or private park designed for public recreational purposes, as park is defined; or in or on the real property comprising public housing or other governmental assisted housing.
Therefore, any distribution of methamphetamine in a protected location as defined by Missouri law could result in a charge which is an A level felony which carries with it a 10-year minimum prison sentence and could result in life in prison, depending on the circumstances.
