Synthetic Drugs

The War on Drugs paved the way for the innovation behind synthetic drugs, with people looking to get a “legal” high off of combining substances that are legal for sale. Synthetic drugs may appear to be illegal but are made with man-made chemicals to deliver a potent effect. These drugs have sent thousands to emergency rooms nation-wide and in some cases may be more damaging to your health than the traditional banned substances. Law enforcement today cracks down on synthetic drugs as aggressively as traditionally outlawed drugs. Crimes involving synthetics may carry penalties that are just as severe as penalties for the most serious controlled substances.

If you have charges against you for an offense involving possession or sale of synthetic drugs, you need to hire a knowledgeable defense attorney who has worked on many drug cases. Exercise your right to remain silent and seek experienced legal counsel by contacting The Law Office of Gabriel & Gabriel in West Palm Beach.

Types of Synthetics

Synthetic drugs, sometimes known as “designer drugs,” are chemically-laced substances intended to provide hallucinogenic effects similar to some illegal substances. The chemicals themselves used to make these drugs are not illegal. However, obtaining these legal chemicals to make illegal substances, is a criminal offense.

Among the most popular synthetic substances in Florida are synthetic cannabinoids or “fake marijuana.” These are often made with dried materials resembling cannabis that are sprayed with chemicals. They can also be oils designed to be inhaled via a vaporizer or electronic cigarette.

Synthetic cathinones, or “bath salts,” are also highly popular. These drugs intend to mimic the effects of MDMA/ ecstasy, methamphetamine, and cocaine. These are sold as powders to be smoked or snorted. They can also be made into liquids that can be smoked with vaporizers.

Penalties for synthetic drugs can range just like they can with traditional drugs. In the case of synthetics, defining your criminal offense depends on the specific type of chemicals used in the substance. There are over 200 chemicals listed in Florida Statute §893.03(1)(c), but additional chemicals are added frequently as more people find illicit uses for legal substances.

One who is accused of possessing, selling, manufacturing, delivering, or possessing with the intent to sell, manufacture, or deliver a synthetic drug classified as a Schedule I substance could be charged with a felony of the third degree. Charges may be enhanced if the crime occurred in a specific geographic location. Do not hesitate to seek the legal counsel of experienced synthetic drug attorney Brian Gabriel in Palm Beach County or the surrounding areas. Call 561-622-5575 or complete an online contact form to schedule a free legal consultation with Attorney Brian Gabriel.