Cocaine is a strong stimulant that’s usually used as a recreational drug to induce euphoria. However, the substance is also incredibly addictive and can be fatal when consumed in large doses. It’s no wonder that all U.S. states, including New Hampshire, have outlawed cocaine.
If you possess or attempt to distribute cocaine in New Hampshire, what penalties can you expect if a court convicts you of a drug offense?
Possession offenses
Unless a court determines you have the intent to distribute cocaine, possession of any amount of the substance is a Class B felony. You face up to seven years of imprisonment and $2,000 in fines on conviction.
If a court convicts you for a second possession offense, it becomes a Class A felony. This offense carries up to 15 years of imprisonment and $4,000 in fines.
Trafficking offenses
Attempting to sell, dispense or deliver cocaine is a much more serious offense than mere possession. The penalties you face on conviction depend on the amount of cocaine involved in the offense:
- Less than .5 oz: A conviction leads to up to seven years of imprisonment and $100,000 in fines. A second conviction for the same amount carries up to 15 years of imprisonment and $200,000 in fines.
- More than .5 oz but less than 5 oz: A conviction leads to up to 20 years of imprisonment and $300,000 in fines. A second conviction for the same amount carries up to 40 years of imprisonment and $400,000 in fines.
- More than 5 oz: A conviction leads to up to 30 years of imprisonment and $500,000 in fines. A second conviction for the same amount carries up to $400,000 in fines and could lead to life imprisonment.
These penalties are for offenses involving cocaine in powder form. If you committed a drug offense involving crack cocaine, you might face even more severe sentences on conviction.
In summary, New Hampshire has very strict laws against the possession and sale of cocaine. If you face accusations for either offense, years of prison time and heavy fines await you. With so much at stake in a court hearing, you might want to consider your defense options carefully. A legal professional with criminal defense experience may be able to advise you on your case.
