Toledo Drug Crimes Attorney

What Is the Ohio Drug Schedule?

In order to help determine the severity of a drug charge, Ohio has created different controlled substance categories. Ohio created schedules that closely mimic the federal laws regarding Schedule I and Schedule II drugs. These schedules organize controlled substances by their perceived toxicity, origin, and potential for user dependence.

Schedules I and II contain the most serious controlled substances:

• Marijuana
• Heroin
• Crystal meth (methamphetamine)
• Opium
• Cocaine
• Various painkillers

What is Considered Drug Trafficking in Ohio?

Drug trafficking (2925.03) involves the importing/exporting, shipping, and/or delivery of controlled substances. Because it is assumed that the accused in these cases may be participating in a larger, illicit economy, drug trafficking is a serious charge. Often, we see drug possession and drug trafficking charged simultaneously against one individual.

Our firm has handled cases involving:

• Trafficking and possession of heroin
• Trafficking and possession of LSD
• Trafficking and possession of marijuana
• Trafficking and possession of cocaine (or crack cocaine)
• Trafficking and possession of prescription pills

Both trafficking and aggravated trafficking can be charged under O.R.C. 2925.03. Aggravated trafficking, the more serious charge of the two, can be charged when Schedule I or II substances are involved. Penalties for these crimes can vary, but both are serious felonies that can result in lengthy prison time.

The same can be said for funding drug or marijuana trafficking (O.R.C. 2925.05). In these cases, it is suspected that the accused provided money or property to someone else so that the recipient could then purchase or obtain a controlled substance for the purpose of drug cultivation, manufacture, or sale.

This is considered a first-degree felony when Schedule I and II drugs are involved, a second-degree felony when lower scheduled drugs are involved, and a third-degree felony when marijuana is involved. A conviction in these trafficking cases can result in lengthy prison sentences, driver’s license suspension, notification of professional boards, and hefty fines.

What Are the Penalties for Drug Crimes in Ohio?

Each drug charge comes with its own unique considerations concerning the controlled substance involved, the volume of the controlled substance, and other variables. These factors will determine the seriousness of the charge and the possible penalties if a conviction is reached.

What can be anticipated, however, is the fact that these cases are taken seriously by both the state and federal governments and, in some cases, can result in mandatory prison time. Offenses involving even low quantities of heroin, cocaine, and meth, for example, can come with mandatory prison time– even for first-time offenders.

That is why it is so critical to retain trusted, seasoned counsel in these matters. As former prosecutors, our team is well-versed in the nature of these cases on both the state and federal levels and the measures that can be taken to protect our clients both in and outside the courtroom.

Take the first step toward safeguarding your future. Contact our firm to request a free, confidential phone consultation with our proven legal advocates today.

What is the Statute of Limitations on Drug Charges in Ohio?

In Ohio, the statute of limitations for drug charges varies depending on the severity of the offense. Generally, the following guidelines apply:

• For minor misdemeanor drug offenses, the statute of limitations is generally 6 months.
• For misdemeanor drug offenses, the statute of limitations is generally 2 years.
• For felony drug offenses, the statute of limitations is generally 6 years.

These timeframes start from the date the alleged offense was committed. However, there can be exceptions or extensions to these general guidelines. For example, the statute of limitations can be tolled, or paused, if the accused is out of state or evading law enforcement.

When you have been charged with illegal drugs, it’s imperative that you consult with a Toledo drug crimes attorney to understand the specific limitations that may apply to a given situation, as laws and their interpretations can change over time.