What is Drug Production?
Drug production encompasses various activities involved in the creation of illegal drugs, including manufacturing, cultivating, or assisting in any part of the production process. This includes making the drug, growing plants used in drug production, or any other method involved in the production chain. It’s important to note that even allowing someone to use your property for growing or manufacturing drugs can be considered participation in drug production. Individuals should exercise caution and awareness regarding any activities related to drug production, as they may be held liable under the law.
What are Controlled Drugs?
Controlled drugs are categorized into three classes based on the level of harm caused by their misuse. The possession, supply, or production of a drug falls into one of these classes, determining the severity of the offence.
Class A Drugs Considered the most dangerous, Class A drugs include cocaine, ecstasy, heroin, LSD, magic mushrooms, and crystal methamphetamine.
Class B Drugs This category includes drugs like codeine, ketamine, cannabis, and synthetic cannabinoids commonly known as “spice.”
Class C Drugs These drugs are considered less harmful compared to Class A and Class B drugs. Class C substances include anabolic steroids, minor tranquilizers, gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB), and khat.
What are the Sentencing Guidelines for Drug Production?
The severity of the sentence will primarily vary based on the class of drug involved and any previous convictions.
- Class A Drugs: Offences can result in a maximum sentence of up to 16 years and/or a fine.
- Class B Drugs: Offences can lead to a maximum sentence of up to 10 years and/or a fine (the cultivation of cannabis plants has been reduced to 8 years).
- Class C Drugs: Offences may result in a maximum sentence of up to 8 years and/or a fine.
Criteria Influencing Sentencing:
- Proximity to the original source of the drugs
- Role in directing or organizing the buying/selling on a commercial scale
- Influence over others in the drug production chain
- Expectation of financial gain
- Using a business as cover for drug activities
- Abusing a position of trust or responsibility
What Should You Do if You’ve Been Charged with Drug Production?
If you or a family member are facing a drug-related charge, seeking legal advice immediately is crucial. A skilled legal professional can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation and help navigate the complexities of the legal process. By sharing as much detail as possible about the facts of your case, you enable your legal representative to build a strong defense and advocate effectively on your behalf. This proactive approach increases the likelihood of achieving the best possible outcome for you or your family member.
Additional external information
Liberty stop and search guidelines
Sentencing Guidelines for all drugs offences
