Drug charges in Missouri carry serious consequences, with penalties ranging from fines and probation to long-term imprisonment. However, options such as drug court, probation, and rehabilitation programs may be available depending on the circumstances of the case. This article explores the different types of drug cases, Missouri statutes, potential penalties, and alternative sentencing options, including the 120-day treatment program through the Department of Corrections (DOC).
Types of Drug Charges in Missouri
Missouri classifies drug-related offenses into several categories based on the nature of the crime. The most common drug charges include:
1. Possession of a Controlled Substance (RSMo 579.015)
Possession occurs when someone is found with an illegal drug without a valid prescription. The severity of the charge depends on the type and quantity of the substance.
- Class D Felony: Possession of any controlled substance except for marijuana.
- Penalty: Up to 7 years in prison and a fine up to $10,000.
- Class A Misdemeanor: Possession of 10 grams or less of marijuana (for first-time offenders).
- Penalty: Up to 1 year in jail and a fine up to $2,000.
- Class D Felony: Possession of over 35 grams of marijuana.
- Penalty: Up to 7 years in prison.
2. Distribution, Delivery, or Manufacture of a Controlled Substance (RSMo 579.020)
This charge applies to individuals accused of selling, manufacturing, or distributing drugs. Missouri enforces strict penalties for these offenses.
- Class C Felony: Distribution of a controlled substance.
- Penalty: 3 to 10 years in prison.
- Class B Felony: Distribution near a school, park, or public housing.
- Penalty: 5 to 15 years in prison.
- Class A Felony: Distribution of large amounts of dangerous drugs (such as heroin or fentanyl).
- Penalty: 10 to 30 years, or life in prison.
3. Drug Trafficking (RSMo 579.065 & 579.068)
Trafficking involves the transportation or intent to distribute large amounts of controlled substances. Missouri law breaks drug trafficking into two degrees:
- First-Degree Trafficking (Class A Felony if high quantities are involved)
- Penalty: 10 to 30 years, or life in prison.
- Second-Degree Trafficking (Class B Felony)
- Penalty: 5 to 15 years in prison.
4. Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (RSMo 579.074)
Possession of items such as pipes, syringes, or scales used for drug consumption or distribution is illegal.
- Class D Misdemeanor (First Offense): Fine up to $500.
- Class A Misdemeanor (Subsequent Offenses): Up to 1 year in jail and a fine up to $2,000.
Alternative Sentencing Options: Drug Court and Probation
For some non-violent drug offenders, Missouri offers alternative sentencing options to avoid traditional incarceration. These programs focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
Drug Court Programs
Drug court provides treatment and supervision as an alternative to jail. Requirements include:
- Regular drug testing
- Substance abuse treatment
- Court appearances
- Compliance with strict rules
Upon successful completion, charges may be reduced or dismissed.
Probation (RSMo 559.012)
In some cases, a judge may grant probation instead of prison time. Types of probation include:
- Supervised Probation: Regular meetings with a probation officer, drug testing, and counseling.
- Unsupervised Probation: No direct supervision but requires the defendant to remain law-abiding.
Failure to comply with probation terms can lead to revocation and prison time.
Missouri’s 120-Day Institutional Treatment Center (ITC) Program
Missouri offers the 120-Day Institutional Treatment Center (ITC) Program as an alternative sentencing option for eligible offenders, focusing on rehabilitation over incarceration.
Legal Basis: The program is authorized under Missouri Revised Statutes § 559.115. This statute allows courts to sentence certain offenders to a 120-day treatment program within the Department of Corrections (DOC).
Program Overview:
- Duration: 120 days
- Components:
- Substance abuse education
- Life skills development
- Cognitive behavioral interventions
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Non-violent offenders
- Individuals whose substance abuse contributed to their offense
- Offenders without prior commitments to the DOC
Statutory Reference: Details of the program are outlined in Missouri Revised Statutes § 217.364, which specifies eligibility, program structure, and procedures for offenders under the treatment program.
Community Support Resources in Hannibal, Missouri
The Hannibal Sobriety Group (HSG) – “The Shack”
In Hannibal, Missouri, individuals seeking support for alcohol addiction often turn to the Hannibal Sobriety Group (HSG), affectionately known as “The Shack.”
- Location: 1995 Industrial Valley Park Rd, Hannibal, MO 63401
- Meeting Schedule:
- Monday to Sunday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM & 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Getting a Sponsor: Having a sponsor in AA or NA provides guidance, support, and accountability throughout the recovery journey. A sponsor is someone who has maintained long-term sobriety and can offer personal insights and encouragement.
Additional Resources:
- Turning Point Recovery Centers (146 Communication Drive, Hannibal, MO | (573) 248-1196)
- Preferred Family Healthcare (4355 Paris Gravel Rd, Hannibal, MO | (573) 248-3811)
- Mark Twain Behavioral Health (917 Broadway, Hannibal, MO | (573) 221-2120)
Conclusion: Get Legal Help for Drug Charges in Missouri
Drug charges in Missouri are serious, but options are available to help offenders avoid the worst penalties. With the right legal representation, many defendants can pursue alternatives like drug court, probation, or the 120-day treatment program to reduce their sentence and get the help they need.
Need Legal Help in Hannibal, Missouri? Contact Bond Law Firm Today!
If you are facing drug charges in Missouri, don’t wait. Contact Bond Law Firm, LLC today at 573-769-6155, visit our office at 102 N. Main St., Palmyra, MO, or email us at eric@bondlawfirm.com. For more information, visit our website at www.bondlawfirm.com. We defend individuals against drug-related offenses and will fight to protect your rights.
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