The nature of charges people face for drug offenses depend on the type of substance involved. The amount of drugs and even the prior record of the defendant can influence the charges prosecutors pursue and the penalties that the courts impose.
In some cases, people who wanted to buy a specific drug might receive product contaminated by other substances. Fentanyl contamination has become a serious safety concern for those involved in the unregulated market in Georgia. Anyone accused of providing drugs contaminated by fentanyl to others are at risk of very serious criminal charges.
Fentanyl contamination affects all drugs
Fentanyl is relatively easy for those with access to laboratory facilities to manufacture. It is much stronger than most other drugs, making it a popular adulterant on the unregulated market. Suppliers might add fentanyl to heroin, which has prompted many people to carry specialized tests that check for synthetic opioids for their safety.
Others might create fake knock-off pills that contain fentanyl in addition to other substances. Tests have even found fentanyl in marijuana products and cocaine. Anyone accused of distributing fentanyl to others is at risk of especially harsh penalties and charges, given the strong association of fentanyl with fatal overdoses.
In cases involving unintentional fentanyl contamination, possibly caused by a supplier, people could face life-altering felony offenses despite being unaware there was even fentanyl present. Defendants who did not add the fentanyl to other drugs may face penalties as though they were the party to blame for the contamination.
Reviewing the state’s evidence with a criminal defense attorney is an important step for anyone accused of a fentanyl-related drug offense. Fentanyl contamination is a serious legal issue that requires the insight of an experienced criminal defense attorney to effectively address.
