Using, possessing, or selling cocaine is unlawful throughout the state of Colorado. This is a Schedule II controlled substance with a high risk of abuse and addiction. As a result, strict laws prohibit its use and possessing it. Getting caught using cocaine is most often a misdemeanor. However, having it in your possession with the intent to sell cocaine is a felony drug offense. If you or someone you know has been contacted by police about controlled substances, contact an attorney for cocaine possession as soon as possible.
Denver County Cocaine Possession Law
Denver County’s cocaine possession law prohibits knowingly having control over cocaine. CRS 18-18-403.5 addresses unlawful controlled substance possession throughout Colorado. This charge can stem from having a bag of cocaine in your backpack, stored in a shoebox in your closet, or stashed somewhere in your car. It can also occur if you possess cocaine for use and the drugs weren’t given to you by another. Cocaine is seldom used for medical purposes or in hospitals. Lawful use and possession must always involve an authorized physician’s supervision.
What are the Penalties for Cocaine Possession in Denver?
While using cocaine is a class 2 drug misdemeanor, simple possession elevates to a class 1 misdemeanor. A conviction may lead to:
- up to 180 days in county jail,
- up to 2 years of probation,
- a maximum fine of $1,000
These penalties were recently modified in early 2020 and reflect a significantly shorter jail sentence and less fines. However, there can be specific terms and conditions should the court impose probation. These usually include prohibited drug use, successful completion of a treatment program, and no other criminal activity. Defendants with 2 or more felony convictions on their record are ineligible for probation in these situations.
Denver Drug Possession Lawyer
While punishment for possessing cocaine isn’t as serious as possession for sale, skilled representation is still important for defendants. Our strategic drug possession lawyers have decades of experience successfully navigating these charges in Denver and other counties throughout Colorado’s front range. Perhaps the cocaine wasn’t yours, you never had control over it, or you didn’t know it was in your possession. Nevertheless, contact our office for a free, confidential consultation. We will carefully analyze your possession case, as well as suggest next steps in your defense. We offer same-day jail visits, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans for people facing drug crime accusations in Colorado.
Don’t talk to the police about cocaine possession – talk to us. Sawyer Legal Group, LLC 303-731-0719.
Photo by Alexander Krivitskiy