Methamphetamine Charges

Houston Methamphetamine Charges Attorney

If you are under investigation or have already been arrested for possession, manufacture or distribution of methamphetamine, be warned that Texas has some of the toughest drug possession laws in the United States. Law enforcement officers and prosecutors commit their resources and energies to the task of capturing and punishing individuals who possess controlled substances such as meth.

Methamphetamine Drug Violations

Methamphetamine abuse is considered by many people to be a greater problem in this country than cocaine, marijuana possession and heroin. The federal government estimates that more than 12 million people in the U.S. have experimented with methamphetamine. Texas classifies methamphetamine as a highly addictive and dangerous drug under its criminal laws.

Among the many street names for methamphetamine are “speed,” “ice,” “chalk” and “crank.” Methamphetamine acts as a strong central nervous system stimulant with effects that can last from six to 24 hours after it is used. The drug is a white, odorless powder that is also distributed as crystals or in large yellow chunks.

Because it is a synthetically-produced drug, methamphetamine production has become a local cottage industry with meth labs operating throughout Texas. Unlike other illegal drugs that are smuggled into the U.S. from other parts of the world, a methamphetamine lab operating out of a residence or commercial building can produce the drug for local distribution.

Crystal Meth Penalties

Due to its highly addictive character, a user can become addicted with the first use of the drug, and the relative ease with which it can be produced, the Texas criminal laws make it a felony crime to possess, distribute or manufacture methamphetamine. Judges are authorized to impose harsh and severe sentences including:

• Up to two years in a state jail and a $10,000 fine for possession of less than 1 gram
• Two to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine for possession of 1 to 3.99 grams
• Two to 20 years in prison and a $10,000 fine for possession of 4 to 199 grams
• Five to 99 years in prison and a $10,000 fine for possession of 200 to 399 grams
• 10 to 99 years in prison and a $10,000 fine for possession of 400 or more grams

Defenses Against Accusations

Most prosecutions for possession, distribution or manufacture of methamphetamine include evidence seized by law enforcement personnel. Searches by police and the seizure of evidence must follow specific rules contained in the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution as interpreted by numerous federal and state court decisions. Evidence obtained by police in violation of these rules can be challenged by defense attorneys asking a judge to suppress the evidence and prohibit prosecutors from using it at trial.

Contact a Meth Attorney in Houston, TX

Rand Mintzer, Attorney at Law, is an experienced Houston methamphetamine charges lawyer who is ready to fight on behalf of anyone facing drug charges in Texas. For a free and complimentary consultation, call 713-862-8880.