According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are hundreds of different synthetic cannabinoid chemicals – and new variants arise with each passing year. On the street, these drugs are referred to as “K2,” “Spice,” “AK-47,” and many other names. One of the most common misconceptions is that synthetic marijuana is legal when, in fact, penalties are often identical to normal cannabis possession in North Carolina. How are these drugs different – and what should you do after getting caught with them in the Tar Heel State?
Synthetic Cannabinoids are Still Illegal
Some users might be tempted to choose synthetic cannabis because they assume that it is a legal alternative to real marijuana. However, it is important to understand that many “families” of cannabinoid chemicals are just as illegal as cannabis. If you are lucky enough to choose a synthetic cannabinoid that has not yet been added to lists of prohibited/controlled substances by federal or state agencies, you may escape penalties. However, the chances of this are relatively low.
Possession of synthetic cannabinoids is routinely prosecuted as a Class I felony in North Carolina. Although this is the least serious type of felony, it is still a felony – and it could result in the loss of your rights. Note that possession of marijuana can also be a Class I felony – which means that there is virtually zero benefit to choosing synthetic marijuana over real cannabis. Although serious, Class I felonies may not lead to actual jail time – especially if you work with an experienced defense attorney.
The maximum prison sentence for possession of synthetic marijuana is two years, although terms of between 4 and 10 months are more common.
You Could Also Face Penalties for Trafficking Synthetic Cannabinoids
Individuals may also face serious penalties for trafficking synthetic cannabinoids. Aside from alleged street dealers, this issue might also affect brick-and-mortar businesses that mistakenly sell prohibited substances. Many variants of synthetic cannabinoids are erroneously labeled as “incense” and other products – often with labels like “not for human consumption.”
If you are caught with large quantities of these substances, however, you could face serious prison time and felonies. If you are caught with 3,750 “doses” of synthetic cannabis, you could face a class D felony and many years in prison. In this situation, it is best to avoid making any statements to law enforcement until you have a chance to speak with your lawyer.
Can a North Carolina Defense Attorney Help Me?
A North Carolina cannabis defense attorney may be able to help if you have been accused of various offenses. With the rising popularity of synthetic cannabis, charges involving these drugs are becoming more common. It makes sense to defend yourself effectively, as the penalties for possessing or trafficking synthetic cannabinoids can be surprisingly severe. Speak with Coastal South Law today – and get started with a defense strategy.
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