Possession of PCP in New Port Richey: What Are the Consequences?

Also known as “angel dust,” PCP is one of the more obscure drugs in the modern era. Described as a “dissociative anesthetic,” PCP can cause hallucinations and psychotic behaviors. The drug can also be highly addictive, particularly due to its ability to produce feelings of euphoria and invincibility. If you are a user and you have a substance abuse problem, you might face charges for PCP possession in New Port Richey. What are the potential consequences?

The “Drug Schedule” of PCP in Florida

PCP is a Schedule II controlled substance in Florida. In other words, the authorities consider it to be among the most dangerous drugs available to the public. Like all Schedule II drugs, PCP has a higher potential for abuse with no accepted medical uses. It is possible to overdose on PCP, and this can have life-threatening consequences. There have been numerous deaths associated with PCP abuse.

Because PCP is a Schedule II drug in Florida, “simple possession” of this drug is a third-degree felony. As a result, you may face five years in prison if convicted. You might also face up to five years of probation and a $5,000 fine.

How Much PCP Can I Possess Before Triggering Trafficking Charges?

In Florida, you could face trafficking charges if the authorities catch you with more than 28 grams of PCP. If police arrest you with this amount in your possession, the authorities will presume that you intended to sell the drugs to other people. As a result, you could face a much more severe penalty.

Specifically, you could face first-degree felony charges. In this situation, you could face mandatory minimum prison sentences. These mandatory minimum sentences could be as high as 15 years if police caught you with larger quantities of PCP.

Perhaps more importantly, the court will no longer see you as a user and a “victim” of substance abuse. Instead, the court will see you as part of the drug problem, and this may make various diversionary programs impossible to pursue.

What Are Some Defense Strategies to PCP Possession in Florida?

You could attack the constitutionality of the initial search during your arrest. You might also challenge the chain of custody of the drug evidence. Another option is to pursue a plea deal, which could lead to a more lenient sentence. PCP can be easily mistaken for other drugs, and it may be difficult to detect in a lab.

Can a Drug Possession Lawyer in New Port Richey Help Me? 

If you face charges for PCP, a drug defense lawyer in New Port Richey may be able to help. If you’re struggling with a substance abuse problem, drug diversion programs may be available to you. If you are a repeat offender, you may need to consider more proactive defense strategies. Consider contacting Athanaselos & Associates, P.C. to learn more about your next steps.

Sources:

 justice.gov/archive/ndic/pubs4/4440/index.htm

flsenate.gov/laws/statutes/2011/893.03