What are the penalties for drug crimes?

In North Carolina, drug crimes are punishable by a variety of sanctions and fines depending on the type of drug crime and the amount of drugs involved. Generally, possession of a controlled substance is a class 1 misdemeanor which can result in a maximum of one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000. If the amount of the drug is greater than 9 grams, the charge may be increased to a felony. More serious offenses, such as possession with intent to sell or deliver, trafficking, or manufacturing drugs are also felonies. For these offenses, the court may impose a prison sentence of up to 30 years depending on the amount of drugs involved and the number of prior offenses of the defendant. In addition, there can also be significant financial penalties such as fines of up to $50,000, forfeiture of property acquired from drug sales, and court costs. Finally, there are certain aggravating factors, such as selling drugs within a certain distance of a school, that can result in even more serious penalties. If a defendant is convicted of such an offense they may face increased prison sentences and higher fines. In conclusion, drug crimes in North Carolina are taken seriously, and those convicted of drug crimes can face a range of penalties, including prison sentences, fines, and court costs.

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