The use of meth (or methamphetamine) has increased to extremely high levels within the last few years. It can legally be obtained through a doctor as a treatment for many different diseases or illegally on the streets. Since the drug is so addictive, it is very, very rarely prescribed by doctors except in the most extreme cases. Since 1971, the illegal use of meth has been classified as a Schedule II drug and, if someone is caught with the drug or charged with a meth crime, they need a lawyer who understands the defense of methamphetamine in Nebraska.
Meth, also known as ice, speed, crank, glass, or crystal meth is made from chemicals. They are mixed together and form a powdery substance or into something that looks like a crystal.
The development process of meth is dangerous and volatile. The residue that is produced as a byproduct of production remains for a long time and can absolutely destroy properties. The use, production, transportation, and sale of methamphetamines is illegal in the United States and falls under both national and state laws.
Signs of a Meth Addiction
If you or someone that you love has a meth addiction, there are a few common signs that there is a problem - namely, users go on binges where they will not eat or sleep as they are getting high. They can be extremely productive or lack productivity, depending on individual reactions. Mostly, however, regular use activates the chemicals in the brain that trigger pleasure: dopamine and serotonin. Many users chase that high, though their tolerance continues to grow and they have to take more and more to fuel the addiction, which can lead to many negative side effects. These can include:
- Paranoia
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Unpredictability
- Compulsive Behavior
- Decreased Appetite
- Rapid Breathing
- Irregular Heart Rate
- Elevated Body Temperature
- High Blood Pressure
- Vision Problems
- Uncontrolled Twitching
- Headache
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Dry Mouth
- Nausea
- TMJ
As the addiction progresses, when users have to take so much methamphetamine to feel even a slight reaction, there is a heightened chance of stroke, heart attack, and ultimately, death. Sometimes, death is not a result of an overdose, but instead the result of another disease caused by increased drug usage, including:
- Brain Damage (Confusion, Memory Loss, Mood Swings)
- Hallucinations
- Delusions
- Suicidal Thoughts
- Homicidal Thoughts
- Psychosis
- Anorexia
- Severe Dental Infections
- Hepatitis
- HIV
- Parkinson’s
- Lung Disease
- Liver Damage
- Kidney Damage
- High Blood Pressure
Seeking help for drug use is imperative and the earlier it happens, the better chance there is for success.
The Crime of Using Methamphetamines
Prosecutors need to convince the judge and jury that the defendant knew he or she possessed the meth in order to win a case against someone. They do not need to prove usage. The requirements for proving possession are straightforward and extremely practiced - they are almost the same for every type of drug.
Defendants who have been charged with possession of meth can defend themselves in certain cases. This is difficult to do and requires a practiced methamphetamines lawyer who understands the legal system and what defenses to use.
The Crime of Methamphetamine Possession for Sale
Selling meth is a serious crime that has serious repercussions. It carries much greater punishments and depends on the amount of meth that the defendant possessed (measured by weight in most cases). If someone is caught with large quantities of meth, baggies, scales, or other drug paraphernalia, they can be charged with intent to sell.
Penalties for Meth Possession
The penalties for meth possession, whether for sale, manufacturing, or simple possession, can vary. At the very least, one can expect a fine, a misdemeanor jail time, or community service, depending on the severity and the amount of meth in question. It can be a felony, especially in manufacturing cases.
Contact a Methamphetamine Lawyer Today
If you have been charged with manufacturing, possession or possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine – or any other type of drug charge, you need to seek legal representation quickly. These cases are treated extremely seriously and judges can be quite harsh on those who are found guilty.
Contact drug defense attorney Daniel Stockmann today for more information about how you can protect yourself and stand up for your rights. Call Stockmann Law at (402) 884-1031.
