Drugs and the law
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Each illegal drug is put into a different ‘class’. The law on drugs is complex. But if you’re caught with an illegal substance, ignorance won’t wash with the police. Here’s what you need to know.
Illegal drugs are divided into different ‘classes’ by the Misuse of Drugs Act. If you’re caught with drugs, the punishment you’ll get depends on what class the drug is. You’ll also face different punishments depending on whether you were just in possession of it, or if you intended to supply it to others.
What different classes of drugs are there?
Class A
- Cocaine, crack, crystal meth, ecstasy, heroin, LSD (acid), magic mushrooms, mephadone and any class B drug prepared for injection.
- Maximum penalties: seven years in prison and/or a fine for possession, life imprisonment and/or a fine for possession with intent to supply.
Class B
- Amphetamines (speed), cannabis, codeine.
- Maximum penalties: five years in prison and/or a fine for possession, 14 years in prison and/or a fine for possessi...
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