How Much Coke is a Felony in Texas?
When it comes to drug charges in Texas, it’s essential to understand the legal implications of possessing and distributing illegal substances, including cocaine. In this article, we’ll explore the laws surrounding cocaine in Texas and provide a direct answer to the question: How much coke is a felony in Texas?
Drug Schedules in Texas
Before we dive into the specifics of cocaine laws in Texas, it’s crucial to understand the drug schedules outlined in the state’s controlled substances act. The act categorizes drugs into five schedules based on their potential for abuse, currently accepted medical use, and safety under medical supervision.
Schedule I: Drugs with a high potential for abuse, no currently accepted medical use, and a lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision. Examples include heroin and LSD.
Schedule II: Drugs with a high potential for abuse, currently accepted medical use, but a limited accepted medical use and high potential for physical and psychological dependence. Examples include cocaine, methamphetamine, and opium.
Schedule III: Drugs with a moderate to low potential for abuse, currently accepted medical use, and a moderate to low risk of physical and psychological dependence. Examples include anabolic steroids and ketamine.
Schedule IV: Drugs with a low potential for abuse, currently accepted medical use, and a low risk of physical and psychological dependence. Examples include benzodiazepines and carisoprodol.
Schedule V: Drugs with a low potential for abuse, currently accepted medical use, and a low risk of physical and psychological dependence. Examples include cough suppressants and anticonvulsants.
Cocaine Laws in Texas
In Texas, cocaine is a Schedule II controlled substance. Possession, distribution, and manufacture of cocaine are illegal and subject to criminal penalties.
Possession of Cocaine in Texas
In Texas, possession of 4 grams or less of cocaine is a state jail felony, punishable by:
• Up to 2 years in state jail
• A fine of up to $10,000
• A maximum fine of $10,000 and a driver’s license suspension
Possession of 4-200 grams of cocaine is a felony of the third degree, punishable by:
• 2 to 10 years in prison
• A fine of up to $10,000
• A maximum fine of $10,000 and a driver’s license suspension
Possession of more than 200 grams of cocaine is a felony of the second degree, punishable by:
• 5 to 20 years in prison
• A fine of up to $10,000
• A maximum fine of $10,000 and a driver’s license suspension
Distribution and Manufacture of Cocaine in Texas
In Texas, distribution or manufacture of 1-4 grams of cocaine is a felony of the third degree, punishable by:
• 2 to 10 years in prison
• A fine of up to $10,000
• A maximum fine of $10,000 and a driver’s license suspension
Distribution or manufacture of 4-200 grams of cocaine is a felony of the second degree, punishable by:
• 5 to 20 years in prison
• A fine of up to $10,000
• A maximum fine of $10,000 and a driver’s license suspension
Distribution or manufacture of more than 200 grams of cocaine is a felony of the first degree, punishable by:
• 5 to 99 years or life in prison
• A fine of up to $10,000
• A maximum fine of $10,000 and a driver’s license suspension
Other Important Facts
• Possession of drug paraphernalia (e.g., pipes, syringes) is a misdemeanor offense, punishable by a fine and/or up to 180 days in jail.
• Trafficking of cocaine (i.e., selling or distributing cocaine in large quantities) can lead to severe penalties, including life imprisonment.
• Cocaine use during the commission of a crime (e.g., driving under the influence) can lead to additional charges and enhanced penalties.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the answer to the question How much coke is a felony in Texas? depends on the specific circumstances of the case. Possession of 4 grams or less of cocaine is a state jail felony, while possession of 4-200 grams is a felony of the third degree. Possession of more than 200 grams is a felony of the second degree. Distribution and manufacture of cocaine also carry varying felony penalties depending on the quantity involved.
It’s essential to note that drug charges in Texas can have serious consequences, including imprisonment, fines, and driver’s license suspension. If you or someone you know has been arrested for a drug-related offense, it’s crucial to seek legal advice from an experienced attorney.
