Manufacturing
Drug manufacturing is a charge that can be filed against a person who is involved in making illegal drugs, according to FindLaw. When a person is charged with this crime, the prosecutors have to prove that the person intended to manufacture the drugs. This crime is usually punished through prison time and probation.
Paraphernalia
Being charged with drug paraphernalia crimes means that you were caught with items associated with using illegal drugs. Bongs, syringes and rolling papers are some examples of paraphernalia. In some cases, it might be necessary for prosecutors to prove how you were using the paraphernalia because some items are sold legally for use with other legal items like tobacco.
Trafficking
Drug trafficking charges are reserved for people who are said to be transporting the drugs. In most cases, this crime is used when large amounts of drugs are involved. Drug trafficking might be coupled with a drug distribution charge.
Possession
Drug possession is a crime that is used when a person has a very small amount of drugs in their possession. The amount must be consistent with what a person would use for personal use for simple possession charges. Other charges, such as possession with intent to distribute, might be used for larger quantities.
Drug Dealing
Charges related to drug dealing are used for small scale drug sellers. This charge usually doesn’t involve the large quantities of drugs that a trafficking charge would.
The consequences vary for different drug charges. With any drug charge, serious consequences are possible, so it is vital that you properly defend yourself against the charges.
Source: FindLaw, “Types of Drug Crimes” Sep. 25, 2014
