A New York City Drug Defense Lawyer Explains Anabolic Steroids Drug Crimes
Anabolic steroids are variants of testosterone which are synthetically produced. Often referred to as roids, gym candy, juice, weight trainers, pumpers, or arnolds, the full name of this controlled substance is androgenic anabolic steroids. Anabolic steroids were classified as a Schedule III controlled substance by the federal government when it passed the Anabolic Steroids Control Act of 1990. In New York, New York State Public Health Law section 3306 classified anabolic steroids, including testosterone, as a Schedule II controlled substance.
Because they are a controlled substance, it is illegal to possess anabolic steroids. It is also illegal to manufacture them without authorization, to prescribe them without a legitimate medical purpose, to deliver or sell them , or to traffic in anabolic steroids. Defendants who are unlawfully in possession or involved in the unlawful manufacture or sale of steroids could face serious state or federal charges. An experienced New York City drug crimes attorney can provide representation to defendant who are facing criminal prosecution in connection with anabolic steroids.
Anabolic Steroids Drug Crimes
Anabolic steroids may be prescribed by medical professionals because there are legitimate medical uses. Patients with loss of testicle function; breast cancer; delayed puberty; low red blood cell counts; or debilitated status as a result of illness or surgery may be prescribed steroids. Having steroids in your possession with a valid medical prescription is not a crime.
When steroids are unlawfully manufactured, prescribed, delivered, trafficked or sold, however, all those involved could be charged with either a state or federal drug crime. Defendants could be charged with:
• Anabolic steroids possession
• Anabolic steroids possession with intent to deliver or distribute
The conditions under which a defendant would be charged vary under NY versus state law. In New York, a defendant is charged with possession except in situations where prosecutors can prove criminal sales occurred. On the federal level, however, it is possible for a defendant to be charged with intent to sell even without the U.S. Attorney providing actual proof that any distribution, delivery or other transaction occurred. The federal government recognizes the crime of intent to manufacture, distribute or dispense with controlled substances, even absent an actual sale taking place.
Penalties for Anabolic Steroid Drug Crimes
Penalties for simple possession, for criminal sale, or for intent to sell will vary significantly depending upon whether a defendant is charged by the federal government or faces charges within the state of New York. Other factors affecting penalties for anabolic steroid crimes can include:
• The total aggregate value of unlawful sales. New York has a major trafficker law imposing significant penalties on those involved with operations trafficking in controlled substances in which more than $75,000 of unlawful sales take place.
• The total amount of unlawful drugs possessed. A defendant is considered to be unlawfully in possession of anabolic steroids whenever they are under his control. This means if the drugs are found in your gym locker but not on your person, you could still be charged.
• Any past history of drug convictions. Repeat offenders face much more significant penalties for offenses involving possession of anabolic steroids, or possession with intent to distribute or deliver.
Defendants may try to reduce penalties through the negotiation of a plea agreement. In some cases, a defendant with information about a large scale illegal drug operation could provide testimony in exchange for immunity or for facing a lesser charge. Defendants could also negotiate plea agreements with the help of their attorney so they reduce consequences which could be associated with a guilt verdict.
Getting Help With Anabolic Steroid Drug Crimes Charges rom a NY Defense Lawyer
If you are accused of any anabolic steroid drug crimes, you deserve to be represented by a lawyer who understands federal and state controlled substances laws and who can help you to fight against being convicted. Give us a call for assistance as soon as you face an investigation or have been charged so a New York City drug defense lawyer can begin helping you to develop a sound legal strategy for responding to accusations.
