In the State of Texas, the possession of controlled substances without a valid prescription is considered a crime with varying degrees of penalties. The state’s approach to these offenses is strict, making it crucial for individuals to be aware of the legal landscape surrounding drug possession. This article dives deep into the categorization of controlled substances, the potential penalties for possession, and the rehabilitation programs available.

Classification of Controlled Substances:

Controlled substances in Texas are categorized into Penalty Groups (PG), ranging from PG 1 to PG 4, with each group containing specific drugs.

• Penalty Group 1 (PG 1): This group includes drugs like methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin. More details can be found in the Texas Health and Safety Code, § 481.102 .
• Penalty Group 1-A: This specifically pertains to different dosages of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD).
• Penalty Group 2 (PG 2): It encompasses drugs like MDMA (ecstasy), PCP, and mescaline.
• Penalty Group 3 (PG 3): This category has substances like Valium, Ritalin, and anabolic steroids.
• Penalty Group 4 (PG 4): Includes compounds or mixtures that contain limited amounts of narcotics.

Each penalty group comes with its respective penalties based on the weight of the drug possessed.

Penalty Ranges for Possession:

The penalties for drug possession vary depending on the Penalty Group and the amount of the drug. Here’s a summarized range:

• PG 1: Ranges from a state jail felony (less than one gram) to a potential life sentence (over 400 grams).
• PG 1-A: Penalties are calculated based on dosage units, ranging from state jail felonies to first-degree felonies.
• PG 2, 3 & 4: Penalties vary based on the amount, with lighter amounts leading to misdemeanor charges and larger amounts resulting in felony charges. The specifics are delineated in the Texas Health and Safety Code.

Rehabilitation and Inpatient Programs:

Texas recognizes the importance of rehabilitation for drug offenders. There are several programs to which individuals might be referred or mandated:

SAFP (Substance Abuse Felony Punishment): An intensive inpatient treatment program designed for probationers and parolees who need substance abuse treatment. The program’s details and objectives can be found at TDCJ’s official page .

IPTC (In-Prison Therapeutic Community Program): A nine-month substance abuse treatment program available to TDCJ offenders. More can be explored on the TDCJ website.

Conclusion:

Possession of controlled substances in Texas is met with stringent penalties. However, the state offers avenues for rehabilitation, emphasizing the importance of recovery and reintegration. If you or someone you know is facing charges for drug possession, seeking expert legal advice is crucial.

Note: Laws and their interpretations can change. Always refer to the latest legal resources or consult with a legal professional to understand the specifics of your case.

Seeking an Expert Drug Possession Lawyer?

Navigating through the complexities of Texas drug laws requires seasoned legal expertise. Contact our firm for a detailed consultation and to explore the best defenses and options available. Visit us at www.johngreentxlaw.com.

References:

Texas Health and Safety Code: https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/HS/htm/HS.481.htm

TDCJ’s official page: https://www.tdcj.texas.gov/divisions/rpd/rpd_safpf.html

TDCJ website: https://www.tdcj.texas.gov/