Charges for Cocaine Possession: Help from Drug Treatment Centers Albany, New York 

Back in 2000, cocaine was a big issue in New York. In Albany, nearly 24.6% of adult male arrestees tested positive for cocaine use, showing a significant problem with the drug at that time. [1] Unfortunately, despite efforts to combat drug abuse, the issue of cocaine persisted in New York. Recently, there’s been a concerning surge in drug-related deaths, fueled by a dangerous combination of cocaine and methamphetamine laced with an even more powerful and lethal form of fentanyl. More people in New York are dying from drug overdoses than ever before. In 2021, 30 out of every 100,000 New Yorkers died from overdoses. In ten out of fifteen New York counties, the number of deaths from overdoses in 2020 was higher than the average for the whole state, which was 25.4 deaths per 100,000 people. One example is Albany County, where the rate of deaths from overdoses went from 8.6 per 100,000 people in 2010 to 28.6 per 100,000 people in 2020, which is more than triple the previous rate. [2]

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), cocaine is classified as a Schedule II drug due to its high addiction risk. It’s less addictive than Schedule I substances (heroin, LSD, marijuana, ecstasy) and was once used as a topical anesthetic. However, it’s not used for medical treatment today. [3] In New York, individuals can face legal repercussions for the possession of cocaine, with varying degrees of severity corresponding to the quantity possessed, ranging from misdemeanor to felony charges.

• Having less than 500 milligrams of cocaine is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail.
• Possessing 500 milligrams is a Class D felony, with a potential sentence of up to seven years.
• Possession of at least 1/8 of an ounce is a Class C felony, carrying a sentence of up to 15 years. [4]

Discovering a path towards recovery from cocaine use and addiction is critical. People can find comprehensive assistance tailored to their needs within the compassionate and supportive environment of drug treatment facilities in Albany. The expert team of professionals offers personalized treatment plans designed to address not only the physical dependence but also the underlying factors contributing to addiction. Drug treatment centers in New York promote a nurturing atmosphere conducive to healing and growth through evidence-based therapies, counseling sessions, and holistic approaches. With professional help, the priority isn’t just avoiding charges for cocaine possession—it’s supporting recovery from addiction.

What Is the Charge of Cocaine in NY?

Explore the laws governing the possession of crack/cocaine in New York State:

• Criminal cocaine possession in the 7th degree: Having less than 500 mg of cocaine is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail.
• Criminal cocaine possession in the 5th degree: Being caught with 500 mg or more of cocaine in New York leads to a Class D felony charge, punishable by 1 to 2 ½ years in prison. Repeat offenders might face up to 4 years, and those with a history of violence could face 4½ years.
• Criminal cocaine possession in the 4th degree: Being caught with 1/8 of an ounce or more of cocaine in New York leads to a Class C felony charge, punishable by 1 to 5½ years in prison. Repeat offenders might face up to 8 years, and those with a history of violence could face nine years.
• Criminal cocaine possession in the 3rd degree: Being caught with ½ of an ounce or more of cocaine in New York leads to a Class B felony charge, punishable by 1 to 9 years in prison. Repeat offenders might face up to 12 years, and those with a history of violence could face 15 years.
• Criminal cocaine possession in the 2nd degree: Being caught with 4 ounces or more of cocaine in New York leads to a Class A-II felony charge, punishable by 3 to 10 years in prison. Repeat offenders might face up to 14 years, and those with a history of violence could face 17 years.
• Criminal cocaine possession in the 1st degree: Being caught with 8 ounces or more of cocaine in New York leads to a Class A-I felony charge, punishable by 8 to 20 years in prison. Repeat offenders might face up to 24 years, and those with a history of violence could face 15 to 30 years. [5]

Cocaine addiction not only poses risks of overdose deaths but also profoundly impacts various aspects of individuals’ lives. For those actively seeking recovery from cocaine addiction, we recommend halfway houses in Albany, New York, providing a supportive environment facilitative to healing and growth. Moreover, for individuals completing drug rehabilitation programs, transitional living arrangements are advised to promote a smoother transition into independent living.

How Much Does It Take to Overdose on Cocaine?

Users often start with cocaine doses between 30 to 70 mg, but with tolerance, they may use over 1 g. A lethal dose is at least 1.2 g, but some hypersensitive users have died from as little as 30 mg. In rare cases, heavy users consume up to 5 g daily, which is fatal for most people.

The possession of substantial quantities of cocaine in New York is strictly prohibited by law, reflecting the grave legal repercussions associated with such actions. Moreover, the alarming prevalence of cocaine overdose stresses the critical need for heightened awareness and caution. Cocaine overdose is a medical emergency and can tragically result in fatalities.

Common symptoms of cocaine overdose include:

• Rapid or irregular heartbeat.
• High blood pressure.
• Chest pain.
• Agitation or extreme restlessness.
• Profuse sweating.
• Tremors or muscle cramps.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Severe anxiety or panic attacks.
• Confusion or disorientation.
• Seizures.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Loss of consciousness.
• Cardiac arrest or heart attack.
• Stroke.

If you suspect someone is experiencing a cocaine overdose, seek immediate medical attention, call 911.

Can Cocaine Be Absorbed Through the Skin?

Cocaine, along with heroin, methamphetamine, crack, ecstasy, and ketamine, can be absorbed through the skin if handled frequently and in large amounts. When cocaine is absorbed through the skin, it can lead to local numbness, irritation, and redness at the site of contact. Moreover, absorption through the skin can still result in systemic effects such as increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and potential overdose symptoms, mainly if a large amount is absorbed.

Meet Wayne, a 23-year-old college graduate who recently moved to a bustling new city to pursue adventure and career opportunities. Eager to fit in, he quickly found himself drawn into a circle of friends who introduced him to a lifestyle he had never experienced. Peer pressure and curiosity led Wayne to try cocaine for the first time. His newfound friends seemed carefree, but little did he know, they were deeply entrenched in the world of drug trafficking, possessing large quantities of cocaine.

One night, amidst a wild party fueled by drugs, Wayne unwittingly consumed a lethal dose of cocaine. As the drug took hold of his body, his friends panicked and rushed him to the nearest hospital, fearing the worst. In the emergency room, Wayne’s life hung in the balance as medical professionals fought to stabilize him. Meanwhile, the gravity of his situation began to sink in. Not only was he facing the terrifying prospect of a drug overdose, but he also realized the legal ramifications of possessing cocaine in New York could ruin his future.

With determination and courage, Wayne decided to seek help. He reached out to a local drug treatment center, where he received the support and guidance he needed to overcome his addiction and rebuild his life. Through therapy and support groups, he found the strength to break free from the grip of cocaine and chart a new course for himself. Though his journey had been fraught with danger and uncertainty, he emerged stronger and more determined than ever to live a life free from the shackles of drugs and destructive influences.

Get Professional Help and Prevent Cocaine Possession Charges: Drug Treatments in Albany, New York

Between 2010 and 2015, New York saw a startling 71% increase in overdose deaths, as reported by the Rockefeller Institute. [6] In response to the escalating toll of tragic deaths and devastating impacts on lives resulting from drug abuse, particularly cocaine, New York has enacted stringent charges for the possession of these hazardous substances. Recognizing the urgent need to address the public health crisis posed by drug addiction, legislative measures have been implemented to deter possession and distribution. Operating as a major drug trafficker in New York is a serious offense, classified as an A-1 felony. This carries a minimum sentence of 15 to 25 years in prison, with a maximum penalty of 25 years to life. [7]

If you or someone dear to you is struggling with cocaine abuse and addiction, there’s no better time than the present to seek assistance. The pivotal step towards recovery begins with reaching out to reputable Albany drug treatment centers. The tailored programs of these facilities offer a unique blend of evidence-based therapies and compassionate support, guiding individuals toward sustainable recovery and holistic wellness. Don’t let addiction dictate your future—embrace the opportunity for transformation and healing by contacting New York drug treatment centers today. Your journey to freedom from cocaine addiction starts now.

Resources: 

[1] Cocaine – National Drug Intelligence Center: New York Drug Threat Assessment (.gov)

[2] Continuing Crisis – Drug Overdose Deaths in New York (.gov)

[3] Drug Scheduling – Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

[4] What Are the Penalties for Cocaine Possession in New York? – https://www.gslawyers.com/what-are-the-penalties-for-cocaine-possession-in-new-york/#

[5] ARTICLE 220 Controlled Substances Offenses – The New York State Senate (.gov)

[6] The Growing Drug Epidemic in New York – https://rockinst.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/2017-04-20-By_numbers_brief_no8-min.pdf

[7] New York Drug Trafficking Defense Lawyer – https://www.dupeelaw.com/criminal-defense-attorney/drug-trafficking/