Every year, thousands of Kentuckians are charged with drug-related offenses. In 2014 (as of writing, the most recent year for which there is complete data), there were over 58,000 counts of drug violations in our state.
Kentucky takes a hard stance on drugs. Unfortunately, our criminal justice system approaches drug users in a way that is harmful to people that need the most help. It seems like there is little room for sympathy for people who have a history of drug use. This is evident in the fact that it is often difficult for those with drug charges on their record to find gainful employment.
Dan Carman and Attorneys believe that everyone should be treated fairly under the law, and we know how important it is to have an advocate in your corner.
We have represented many clients facing drug charges ranging from minor offenses to serious felonies. Our drug charge defense attorneys will make sure that your case gets the attention and dedication that it deserves. Contact our office today to find out more about how we can help you.
10 Kentucky Cities With the Most Drug Offenses
This list from 2014 represents the cities (excluding Louisville) with the highest number of drug offenses in our state, based on the yearly report from the Kentucky State Police. Drug offenses made up over 20 percent of all offenses, second only to larceny/theft.
- Drug offenses in Lexington: 3,381
- Drug offenses in Owensboro: 1,731
- Drug offenses in Covington: 1,430
- Drug offenses in Richmond: 1,231
- Drug offenses in Bowling Green: 1,226
- Drug offenses in Paducah: 1,210
- Drug offenses in Elizabethtown: 970
- Drug offenses in Hopkinsville: 845
- Drug offenses in Frankfort: 683
- Drug offenses in Mayfield: 672
Drug-Related Cases We Handle
Drug charges come in many different forms. Sometimes these charges are combined or added to other charges, leading to the possibility of greater fines and penalties. Drug charges in Kentucky can include:
Drug Possession in Kentucky
Drug possession means that you have illegal drugs in your custody or under your control. These charges, though sometimes considered a lesser offense than, say, trafficking, can have big consequences, such as imprisonment, fines, probation and screening periods.
Drug Trafficking and Drug Distribution
Distribution charges in Kentucky include intent to sell, furnish or deliver drugs to another person. Factors that impact the severity of the charges and possible penalties include a history of prior offenses, the type of drug, the quantity of drug and the involvement of a minor.
- Cocaine – Along with prescription drugs and marijuana, cocaine is one of the most popular drugs in Kentucky. Possession or distribution of powder and crack cocaine can result in serious penalties.
- Controlled Substances (miscellaneous) – Kentucky law forbids people from manufacturing, using, possessing or distributing drugs that are habit-forming, dangerous or inappropriate for use without a prescription. Controlled substances can fall under many different categories, based on potential for abuse and possible medical benefits.
- Heroin – Kentucky has an enormous, growing heroin problem, and the state has made an effort to crack down on both the use and the distribution of this drug. Heroin-related offenses often result in very severe charges and penalties.
- Marijuana – While some states have enacted laws that decriminalize marijuana, Kentucky law is still tough on marijuana use and distribution. People can be charged with growing, distributing, possessing or using marijuana in Kentucky.
- Methamphetamine/Meth/Crystal Meth – Methamphetamine is notoriously prevalent in Kentucky, especially but not exclusively west of I-75. Meth charges can be severe, and possession of materials used to manufacture methamphetamine might also result in criminal charges.
- Prescription Drugs – Kentucky also has strict laws on drugs obtained, used or sold illegally. Charges can include lying to doctors, sharing prescriptions, forging prescriptions or falsely claiming to have lost prescription drugs.
- Psychedelic Drugs – Possession, use or distribution of psychedelic drugs is illegal in Kentucky. These types of drugs include LSD, psilocybin mushrooms, DMT and mescaline.
- Salvia – While legal in some other states, the use of the psychoactive material salvia is illegal in Kentucky.
If you’ve been charged with a drug-related crime in Kentucky, Dan Carman and Attorneys may very well be able to offer significant help. Our criminal defense attorneys offer years of experience defending people facing drug charges. We will investigate every angle of your case and determine the proper course of action. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you.
