Drug Paraphernalia

Drug Paraphernalia Charge

Drug paraphernalia charges in Georgia can be made for possession of many items known be part of recreational drug and marijuana use. In some cases, common household items can be considered to be drug related items. Drug paraphernalia charges can bring misdemeanor or felony charges with steep fines and lengthy jail or prison sentences.

Types of Drug Paraphernalia

While there are numerous types of items that could be considered as drug paraphernalia, many are common household items. The prosecution must prove that any of the following items are, or have been, used in drug related activities. Some items which may be considered paraphernalia are:

• Rolling papers
• Glass pipes
• Bongs
• Scales
• Alligator clips
• Hemostats
• Razor blades
• Spoons
• Syringes
• Hypodermic needles

Items used to grow, cultivate, process, manufacture, package marijuana and drugs can also be considered paraphernalia. This can include chemicals, lab equipment, grow lights, hydroponic equipment, and more.

Possession of Paraphernalia Punishments

In Georgia, the possession of drug paraphernalia is a misdemeanor charge. It is punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine up to $1,000. A second offense punishable by up to one year in jail, and a fine up to $5,000. A third offense is punishable by a minimum of one year in jail and a maximum of 5 years in jail, and a fine up to $5,000.

Drug Paraphernalia Laws in Georgia - O.C.G.A. § 16-13-32

The 2010 Georgia Code, Title 16, Chapter 13, Article 32.2 covers the regulation of drug paraphernalia in the State of Georgia. Specifically, § 16-13-378 covers the possession and use of drug related objects. It reads as follows:

O.C.G.A. 16-13-32.2 (2010)

• (a) It shall be unlawful for any person to use, or possess with the intent to use, any object or materials of any kind for the purpose of planting, propagating, cultivating, growing, harvesting, manufacturing, compounding, converting, producing, processing, preparing, testing, analyzing, packaging, repackaging, storing, containing, concealing, injecting, ingesting, inhaling, or otherwise introducing into the human body marijuana or a controlled substance.
• (b) Any person or corporation which violates any provision of this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

If you have been arrested or formally charged with a drug related crime you need to hire an expert drug charges defense lawyer. Call us at 770-956-1400 to arrange time to discuss your situation and get answers to your questions.