Prescription Drug Crimes in College Station & Bryan, TX

Seek Legal Representation from an Experienced & Knowledgeable Criminal Defense Lawyer

When it comes to drug crimes, most people typically think of criminal charges involving meth, heroin, cocaine, and even cannabis. However, drug crimes involving prescribed medication have become a severe problem over recent years. From carrying or using a controlled substance without a legitimate prescription to doctor shopping, prescription drug crimes are punishable by long prison sentences, costly fines, and a permanent criminal record that can severely damage your personal and professional reputation.

At Shane Phelps Law., we are dedicated to helping our clients obtain the best outcome in their cases. With decades of legal experience, our College Station criminal defense attorney can investigate your arrest, gather evidence to support your case, and develop a strong defense strategy to either get your case thrown out or your charges/penalties reduced. Do not hesitate to get experienced legal counsel when facing these serious crimes.

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Prescription Drug Charges & Penalties in Texas

Prescribed medication is considered controlled substances according to state law. Many types of prescription drugs are classified as Penalty Group 1—such as codeine, fentanyl, oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, etc.—which is punishable by the most severe penalties due to the high potential for abuse and addiction. Other types of prescribed medicines belong in Penalty Group 3, including Ritalin, Valium, Xanax, etc.

Illegal possession of less than one gram of a Penalty Group 1 narcotic results in a state jail felony, which carries a jail term of up to two years and a maximum fine of $10,000. Possession of one gram but fewer than four grams is a third-degree felony, punishable by a maximum prison sentence of 10 years and a fine of up to $10,000. Between four grams but fewer than 200 grams is a second-degree felony, punishable by a prison sentence of up to 20 years and fine no larger than $10,000. Between 200 grams and fewer than 400 grams is considered a first-degree felony, which carries a maximum prison sentence of 99 years and a fine of up to $50,000. Over 400 grams results in a lifetime prison term.

Distribution or sale of a prescription drug leads to more harsh penalties. For instance, it is a second-degree felony for the sale of a Penalty 1 Group narcotic.

Prescription drug fraud is defined as obtaining prescribed medication through fraudulent and dishonest means. This includes forging or altering a doctor’s note, misrepresentation of personal information in order to obtain a prescription and going to different doctors to get a prescription for the same controlled substance (without them knowing about the others).

When a Penalty Group 1 controlled substance is involved in prescription fraud, the charge is a second-degree felony. When a Penalty Group 3 controlled substance is involved in prescription fraud, the charge is a third-degree felony.

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