What are the rules governing federal drug offenses?

Federal drug offenses are governed by the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). The CSA is a federal law that criminalizes the production, possession, distribution, and trafficking of certain controlled substances. It also outlines punishments for violations. Under the CSA, the federal government classifies controlled substances into five categories (schedules) based on their potential for abuse and medical use. Schedule I drugs, such as heroin and LSD, have the highest potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. Schedule V drugs have the lowest potential for abuse and accepted medical use. The CSA makes it a crime to manufacture, possess, distribute, and traffic any controlled substance. Penalties for drug offenses depend on the type and amount of drug involved. For example, first-time possession of a small quantity of a Schedule I or II drug, such as cocaine or heroin, is punishable by a maximum of one year in prison, a maximum fine of $1,000, or both. Trafficking larger quantities of the same drugs can result in up to five years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, or both. The CSA also prohibits the use of firearms in connection with a drug felony. If a person is found guilty of using a firearm during a drug-related crime, they face additional punishment of at least five years in prison, and up to life in prison, in addition to the sentence for the original crime. In summary, the rules governing federal drug offenses are outlined in the Controlled Substances Act. Penalties for drug offenses depend on the type and amount of drug involved. The CSA also prohibits the use of firearms in connection with a drug felony and provides additional punishments for violators.

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