The Misuse Drug Act

The Misuse of a Drug Act divides drugs into three categories. Classifies according to their of harmfulness of danger to the individual and society, with penalties varying accordingly.

These categories are as follows:

• Class A - includes Heroin, Cocaine, Ecstasy, LSD, Morphine, Magic Mushrooms, speed if prepared for injection (Amphetamines)
• Class B - (Amphetamines) speed
• Class C - Cannabis, GHB, Rohypnol, supply of Steroids and Tranquillisers/possession of Temazepam (mazzies)

The Act also gives police the right to stop and search vehicles and persons. If the police obtain a search warrants to search properties; to take hold of anything which appears to be evidence of an offence; and to arrest persons suspected of having committed an offence under the Act.

Most serious offence are supply and intent to supply. The heaviest penalties under the law are for importing and exporting drugs.

Penalties for drug related crimes change according to the defendant's circumstances and records, but as a guide, below are the maximum penalties:

• Class A -  The maximum for possession is 7 years imprisonment with an unlimited fine, and for supply, life imprisonment and an ultimate fine.
• Class B - The maximum for possession is 5 years or a fine or both, and for supply, 14 years imprisonment or a fine or both.

Dealing with drug offenders

Anyone who commits offence against the Misuse Act of Drugs can be dealt with in different of ways.

For minor offence like possession of small amount of cannabis for personal use, how you will be treated depends on the area.

Some police forces always prosecute first time offenders with small amounts of drugs, while others are far more lenient, offering only caution. This is a formal acknowledgement that the person has committed an offence and acts as a warning regarding future behaviour. A caution does not count as a conviction, but may be brought up in the future court proceedings. Details may also be disclosed to future employers if the person applies for certain types of jobs.

If the person has already been cautioned for a similar offence they may have to appear before Magistrates Court. and face a fine, suspended or short prison sentence.

For more serious offences of supplying, possession with intent to supply illegally bringing drugs into the country, the person would usually face a trial before a judge and jury at higher criminal court Crown Court

The Medicines Act

Some of the drugs used on the dance scene are covered by the above act. It is not illegal to possess various drugs such as Ketamine and Amyl Nitrate, but any unauthorized manufacture and distribution of these substance are possibly offences.

Drugs and Driving

Under the Road Traffic Act it is an offence to be in charge of a motor vehicle when unfit through drugs. If found guilty there's an obligatory 12 month's disqualification and a fine. If you  are involved in an accident whilst under the influence, tough penalties will be applied. Remember that you're classed as being in charge of a vehicle even if you're on the high in the back seat a sleep.  

Last modified: 04/27/06