Amphetamines stimulate the central nervous system, providing the user with energy and a heightened sense of awareness. They are widely prescribed to treat a variety of disorders, including narcolepsy, chronic fatigue syndrome, and brain injuries. However, misuse of this substance can lead to an individual facing serious amphetamines charges in Lubbock.
Their use to treat children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder has become controversial. Although amphetamines have been used to treat obesity, their prescription as “diet pills” has become less common in light of the potential for amphetamine addiction.
Amphetamines are sometimes known as “speed” or “uppers.” People who take amphetamines without a prescription usually do so to stay awake. For instance, students use amphetamines to study for exams while long-distance drivers use amphetamines to stay alert while driving. Methamphetamine is part of the amphetamine family but its illicit sale and use is treated more harshly than other amphetamines because it is perceived as a more dangerous drug.
Since amphetamines are prescribed for legitimate medical purposes but have some potential for abuse, they are listed in Schedule II of the Texas Controlled Substances Schedules.
Amphetamine Penalties
Amphetamines offenses in Lubbock, regardless of quantity, are classified as felonies. Penalties depend upon the crime and the quantity of the amphetamines involved in the crime.
A federal sentence for distributing (or possessing with intent to distribute) amphetamines, or for a conspiracy to distribute amphetamines, depends upon whether the defendant has a prior drug conviction under state or federal law and whether a serious injury or death resulted from use of the distributed drug. If serious injury or death results from the distribution of amphetamines, a mandatory minimum penalty applies.
- No injury
- First offense: Maximum sentence of 20 years.
- Second or subsequent offense: Maximum sentence of 30 years.
- Serious injury or death:
- First offense: Minimum sentence of 20 years, maximum of life.
- Second or subsequent offense: Minimum sentence of life.
The maximum penalties described above may increase substantially and different mandatory minimum penalties may apply if:
- The drug was distributed to a person under the age of 21;
- The drug was distributed to a pregnant woman;
- Minors were employed to assist in the commission of the offense; or
- Distribution occurred near a protected area.
Amphetamines (other than methamphetamine) are included in Penalty Group 2 of the Texas Controlled Substances Act. Read this Penalty Group 2 article to learn more about the penalties that apply to delivery, possession with intent to deliver, manufacturing, or possession of amphetamines.
Consult With A Lawyer Today
A conviction for amphetamine distribution, like other federal drug crimes, has serious consequences. To assure that you receive a vigorous defense, you need a law firm that has a reputation for excellence in its handling of federal drug charges. In conclusion, call Texas Criminal Defense Group to discuss your case with a federal criminal defense lawyer.