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Law enforcement in Tennessee takes prescription drug crimes seriously. Several actions can result in a prescription drug crime charge, and a conviction can mean severe consequences.
Types of Prescription Drug Crimes
A prescription drug crime can be more than possession of a prescription drug that does not belong to the person it was intended for, although that is one of the most common types of offenses. Other common types of crimes involving prescription drugs include:
- Buying prescription drugs;
- Distribution or selling prescription drugs;
- Robbing a pharmacy and stealing prescription drugs;
- Altering prescription drug labels;
- Stealing prescription slips from a doctor’s office;
- Forging a doctor’s signature on a prescription; and,
- Pretending to be someone else to obtain their prescription drug.
Who is Held Liable for Prescription Drug Crimes?
Those accused of the crimes above may face formal criminal charges for their actions. Additionally, consequences can be issued for someone who willingly gives someone else their prescription or prescribed medication so that the other party may use it themselves or distribute it. Anytime a prescription is issued to an individual, that medication is meant to be used by the individual it was prescribed to, not another party.
Consequences for Prescription Drug Crimes
Depending on the type and amount of the drug, the severity of the alleged crime will determine the potential consequence someone could face.
In Tennessee, possession of a prescribed medication that does not belong to you or giving someone a prescription drug that does not belong to them is a Class A misdemeanor, the most serious misdemeanor offense in the state. A Class A misdemeanor can result in a fine of up to $2,500 and a year behind bars.
The selling, manufacturing, or dealing of prescription drugs is typically classified as a felony charge. The type of felony someone is charged with depends on the type of drug involved in the crime and the amount of the drug. The felony charges can be:
- Class C (three to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000);
- Class B (eight to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $200,000); and,
- Class A (15-60 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000).
Prescription Drug Defense Attorneys in Johnson City
Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, the Johnson City prescription drug defense attorneys at Meade Law Group are ready to help. Our team has worked on various prescription drug defenses and has the experience needed to work your case. Contact us online or by phone so we can start working with you. (423) 464-7779
