Both state statutes in Maryland and federal regulations prohibit numerous drugs. There are also dozens of substances that are only legal to possess and use with a valid prescription from a physician. Some drugs blur the line between dangerous, unregulated substances and controlled medications.
In recent years, certain synthetic opioid drugs have become relatively common on the unregulated market. In fact, these drugs may turn up in other substances. The distribution of drugs contaminated with other substances could put people at increased risk of more serious criminal charges and harsher penalties.
Contamination and adulteration are common
Many popular drugs are very expensive, especially in their purest forms. Those attempting to profit from the distribution of illicit substances may seek to increase their profit margins by using adulterants to reduce the amount of the active compound people receive.
Historically, this practice has involved using items like baby formula to cut powdered drugs. However, in recent years, professionals analyzing the drugs found by police officers have found a different, more dangerous trend. Those involved in the trade of illicit substances may add fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic opioid, to other drugs.
Fentanyl has been found in everything from heroin and cocaine to counterfeit medications. Carfentanil, an even stronger veterinary medication, has also turned up in tests analyzing the chemical composition of seized drugs.
How contamination affects the charges
There are two main ways in which contaminated or adulterated drugs could impact the charges brought against an individual. State authorities can treat the drugs found as fentanyl, which is a relatively high-risk drug, instead of charging the person based on the other compounds present in the drugs.
The presence of fentanyl, carfentanil and other undisclosed synthetic opioids could also increase the risk of the buyer having a bad reaction. They might overdose or engage in erratic behavior. If the person who received contaminated drugs commits a major crime, harms others or overdoses, the person who supplied them with the contaminated drugs could be at risk of significant criminal consequences.
In many cases, those accused of providing fentanyl-contaminated drugs to others may not have been aware of the contamination. Reviewing the state’s case, including reports about the chemical analysis of the drugs, with a skilled legal team can help people accused of drug offenses involving fentanyl. Those hoping to fight drug charges need to understand the state’s allegations before they strategize for trial.