Methamphetamine has been around since the nineteenth century, but it has become the drug of choice in recent decades. Also known as crystal methamphetamine, crystal meth and a host of other names, meth is now a high priority for law enforcement officials. According to the Texas Health and Safety Code, a criminal charge for possessing or distributing drugs, like methamphetamine, can result in prison time and financial penalties. Only a skilled Houston area methamphetamine defense lawyer is prepared to review the criminal charges and protect a defendant’s legal rights in court.
Methamphetamine is a synthetic drug that is cooked, or produced, in secret labs and sold to drug users on the street. Methamphetamine influences the central nervous system to artificially imitate the release of dopamine in the brain. It can be smoked, injected, snorted or ingested to experience a high that temporarily stimulates feelings of pleasure. The rush created by crystal meth can last up to 12 hours at a time.
Crystal meth is extremely addictive. The temporary high it creates can cause a user to get into a debilitating cycle of successive rushes and crashes. The cycle can go on for days, immobilizing users and destroying families. The long-term use of meth can ravage the body, including weight loss, tooth decay, insomnia and psychotic behavior. Addicts are also subject to anxiety, paranoia, suicide, hallucinations and violent behavior. For many people, crystal methamphetamine has replaced cocaine as the drug of choice, since it is much more affordable.
In the state of Texas, the possession of any amount of methamphetamine can result in a felony charge. The possession of the equipment necessary to produce or transport meth can lead to an intent to distribute charge. The production or possession of drugs is subject to severe penalties. As such, any drug charges should be taken very seriously. Crystal meth and other highly addictive controlled substances belong to Penalty Group I, the group with the harshest penalties. The range of penalties for meth include:
When someone has been charged with a crystal meth offense, the services of a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney is imperative. Brett A. Podolsky knows how to mount an aggressive legal defense against drug charges, and he will work hard to protect your rights.
Reach Brett Podolsky by telephone at 713-227-0087 and get a free initial consultation.
