Most people in Phoenix are aware that possession and distribution of a controlled substance is illegal in Arizona. However, few people may realize that it's also illegal to distribute (or possess with the intent to distribute) or manufacture an imitation of a controlled substance. So, a person in Arizona can actually face serious legal trouble if he or she sells a mixture of fake cocaine that is perhaps comprised of a mixture of salt, sugar, and energy powder. Such a substance would be considered an imitation of a controlled substance.
Arizona Revised Statute 13-3453 states that any person who manufactures, distributes, or possesses with intent to distribute an imitation controlled substance as a controlled substance is guilty of a class 5 felony. In Arizona, class 5 felonies are punishable with up to one and one half years in prison, if the person has no prior convictions.
The law also says that it is not a defense to prosecution under this law that the defendant believed the imitation of the controlled substance to be a legitimate controlled substance. Many Phoenix criminal lawyers may find this section of the law comical, as the possession of a controlled substance is considered a much more severe offense compared to the possession of an imitation of a controlled substance.
Law enforcers may take Arizona drug-related crimes very seriously, but there are Phoenix criminal lawyers that specialize in drug cases and help such suspects. An experienced criminal lawyer should be able to help with defense of a controlled substance imitation case or answer any questions about related charges.
Related Resources:
- Drug Distribution/Trafficking (FindLaw)
- Contact a Phoenix Criminal Attorney (FindLaw)
- Drugs and Narcotics (LawBrain)
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