Possession – Rhode Island

Have You Been Arrested on a Rhode Island Criminal Possession Charge?

John R. Grasso is a former police investigator. Now, his efforts are focused on defending those accused of drug possession and other criminal activities.

If you’ve been accused of drug possession, contact the Island law offices as soon as possible.

Definition of Possession:

The Uniform Controlled Substances Act under Rhode Island Code Chapter 21-28, outlines the varied forms of controlled substances, restrictions for possession, manufacturing or selling controlled substances and more.

Possession or simple possession, is defined as owning a controlled substance including heroin, cocaine or marijuana.

The code goes even further in defining the exact penalties for each type of drug.

In addition, individuals can be charged with drug possession for prescription medicines – if there’s no valid prescription presented.

Penalties vary based on several factors including:

  • The type of substance
  • The quantity of the controlled substance found
  • The defendant’s criminal history

As an example, possession of marijuana comes with fines of up to one year in prison, as well as several other penalties. On the other hand, possession of  cocaine measured at over 1 kg, could mean life imprisonment.

Defendants who are caught with simple possession without any aggravating factor may have the opportunity to file for a drug diversion program, verses serving time in jail – through an expert lawyer.

These aggravating factors include possession with the intent to sell or distribute, or that the possession was a leeway to a manufacturing ring.

Whatever the case may be, let’s talk. Contact John R. Grasso now.

What Are the Consequences of Rhode Island Possession Charges?

Possession of Marijuana (less than 1 kilogram):

  • Up to 1 year in prison
  • Up to $500, but no less than $200 in fines and/or
  • Community service
  • Participation in a drug education program

Possession of Marijuana (1- 5 kilograms):

  • Up to 50 years, but no more than 10 years in prison
  • Up to $500,000 but no less than $10,000 in fines and/or

Possession of Marijuana (more than 5 kilograms):

  • At least 25 years in prison, and up to life imprisonment
  • Up to $1,000 in fines

Possession of Cocaine or Heroin (more than 1 kilogram)

  • Up to life imprisonment and/or
  • Up to $1,000,000 in fines

Possession of other drugs is punishable in Rhode Island by:

  • Up to $5000, but no less than $500 in fines and/or
  • Up to 3 years in prison, plus
  • Community service
  • Participation in a drug education program

Drug Possession offenders with a prior, could face double these fines.

Contact an Aggressive Drug Possession Defense Attorney in Rhode Island

Drug possession is no easy crime to defend on your own. An experienced RI defense lawyer can present several legal defenses including misidentification, being unaware of the possession or entrapment.

Discuss your case confidentially with John R. Grasso, and ask about our free consultations.

Contact the Rhode Island Law Offices of John R. Grasso now.

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