Do you know what the most commonly used drug in Georgia is? While heroin and opioids are rightfully receiving a fair amount of national attention right now, they are just the third most used drug in Georgia. Meth is the most used drug in Georgia, according to 2018 research from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.
You may know someone affected by meth, given how common the drug is. Meth possession is something that law enforcement doesn’t take lightly and punishments, even for first-time offenders, are severe.
A little bit goes a long way
If you’re charged with possessing less than 28 grams of meth and convicted, you could face between five and 30 years in prison. A second offense could cost you an additional 10 to 40 years of imprisonment. These are serious felony charges that are life-altering.
Those are just the punishments for a small amount of meth. Possessing larger amounts can lead to more severe punishments.
A possession charge involving more than 28 grams becomes a trafficking charge. Trafficking is more severe and punished by a $200,000 fine and a minimum of 10 years imprisonment. When you convert grams to imperial measurements, 28 grams is just two tablespoons worth. It doesn’t take much to impact your life.
Meth is still a serious problem
Just because another drug epidemic has taken the spotlight doesn’t mean that meth use has subsided. Meth is still a significant problem all over the country, including Georgia. If you or someone you know is struggling with meth abuse, there are resources for finding help.