Drug Manufacturing Defense
Houston Drug Manufacturing Lawyers :: The Law Office of Matthew D. Sharp
A person may be charged with manufacturing a controlled substance in Texas if they are found to be either growing illegal drugs or creating them from chemicals. These types of drugs are often created or grown in labs. For example, crystal meth is typically produced in methamphetamine labs. The state of Texas has severe penalties for those who are caught growing or producing drugs such as marijuana, cocaine or prescription drugs.
Severe Penalties for Manufacturing Controlled Substances
The penalties for this type of drug crime are wide-ranging and severe. There are five main penalty groups that drugs are broken down into, and they include:
- Penalty Group I: Opiates, dimepheptanol and GHB are a few examples of controlled substances in this group. Penalties can range from a state jail felony for less than one gram to 15 years to life in prison and a fine of no more than $250,000 for more than 400 grams.
- Penalty Group I-A: This category only consists of LSD. Less than 20 units may be charged as a state jail felony. More than 4,000 units has a sentence of 15 years to life in prison and a fine of no more than $250,000.
- Penalty Group II: This group consists of controlled substances that have the effect of depressing the nervous system. A state jail felony is given for those caught with less than one gram. Those who are caught with four to 400 grams face 10 years to life in prison and fines of no more than $100,000.
- Penalty Group III: These drugs are intended to stimulate the nervous system. If a person allegedly manufactured 28 grams or less, he may be charged with a state jail felony. More than 400 grams equals a sentence of 10 years to life in prison and a fine of no more than $100,000.
- Penalty Group IV: Controlled substances in this group are narcotic drugs that contain at least one nonnarcotic active medical ingredient. Less than 28 grams is a state jail felony, and more than 400 grams can result in 10 years to life in prison and a fine of no more than $100,000.
Defending Against Controlled Substance Manufacturing Charges
There are some instances where authorities have overstepped their legal bounds when trying to make an arrest or obtain evidence. These missteps can lead to a case being dismissed or a sentence being reduced. Some of these instances include:
- The authorities had no probable cause to search a person or property.
- A warrant was not issued when authorities searched a residence or property.
- Information leading to the warrant came from an unreliable source.
Call a Controlled Substances Manufacturing Lawyer in Houston
The lawyers at The Law Office of Matthew D. Sharp have a history of aggressively defending their clients’ rights. Schedule a free legal consultation with a knowledgeable drug manufacturing attorney by contacting The Law Office of Matthew D. Sharp today.
