Drug Paraphernalia
The criminal charge of Drug Paraphernalia can include possession of a plastic baggie, scales, bong and rolling papers for marijuana.
Drug paraphernalia defined by the feds includes any legitimate equipment, product, or material that is modified for making, using, or concealing illegal drugs such as cocaine, heroin, marijuana, and methamphetamine. Drug paraphernalia generally falls into two categories: User-specific products and Dealer-specific products.
User-specific products are customarily marketed to drug users to assist in taking or concealing illegal drugs. These products may include pipes, smoking masks, bongs, cocaine freebase kits, marijuana grow kits, roach clips, and items such as hollowed out cosmetic cases or fake pagers used to conceal illegal drugs.
Dealer-specific products are customarily used for the preparation of illegal drugs for distribution at the street level. Items such as scales, vials, and baggies fall into this category. Drug paraphernalia does not include any items traditionally used with tobacco, like pipes and rolling papers.
The Federal Drug Paraphernalia laws (that is part of the Controlled Substances Act) state that it is illegal to possess, sell, transport, import, or export drug paraphernalia as defined. The law gives specific guidance on determining what constitutes drug paraphernalia. Most states also have their own laws prohibiting drug paraphernalia.
Always consult with a criminal defense attorney whether you have questions about the criminal laws or need a consultation regarding specific criminal charges.
