It has always been clear that heroin is illegal in the United States. While not all opiates are illegal, most require a prescription at minimum, and some are not ever allowed to be used. Getting caught with opiates without a prescription or getting caught with an illicit drug quickly leads to serious allegations and charges.
In Virginia, there are laws specific to the use and sale of heroin. Heroin, a kind of opiate, is strictly illegal within the United States. Federal laws apply to cases involving heroin in Virginia, where it is recognized as a Schedule I drug.
Even a first-time offense can lead to some significant penalties. For example, you could go to jail for up to a year and/or pay a fine of up to $2,500 if you’re found in possession of heroin in any amount. The penalties you face significantly increase if you sell the drug.
Selling heroin has a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison. You could face up to 40 years for selling the drug. That’s only if you can prove that you did not profit from the drug, were not an inmate at that time and did not intend for the recipient to become addicted. If you carry over 1 kg of heroin, then you face a mandatory sentence of 20 years in prison and fines of up to $500,000. Stricter penalties are given to those who sell or distribute drugs around schools.
Heroin is illegal, so if you’re caught with it, you could be in deep trouble. Your attorney can help protect your rights and fight for your freedoms. Our website has more information on what you can do to defend yourself.