Heroin is an addictive drug that can have severe consequences for those who use it, so in Iowa, there are laws meant to help protect people from the dangers of heroin. Here are the rules you should know regarding heroin possession, distribution and trafficking.
Possession of heroin in Iowa
In Iowa, it is illegal to possess heroin. The punishment for possession will vary depending on how much heroin a person has and whether it is their first offense. Generally, the charges range from a simple misdemeanor to a felony.
Distribution of heroin in Iowa
According to Iowa Code 124, possessing heroin with the intent to distribute is a felony. Intent to distribute means to transfer possession or deliver to another person, whether or not they are getting money in return.
Trafficking of heroin in Iowa
Trafficking includes importing, transporting or selling heroin. If a person is accused of trafficking, the state will charge them with a felony. Penalties could be worse for selling near a school, a recreational area or a marked school bus.
Penalties for heroin possession, distribution, and trafficking
Drug charges in Iowa depend on the substance’s classification, the amount and the number of previous convictions. The potential penalties will be as follows:
For possession, the judge will look at the amount the police found on the defendant. If it was less than 5 grams, the defendant would be fined up to $750 and face imprisonment of up to 30 days. Anything above that could lead to five years in jail and $5,000 fines.
For distribution or trafficking, the judge will look at the amount, the buyer and the location of the sale. Distributing or trafficking less than 100 grams can lead to $50,000 in fines and 10 years in prison. Selling more than 100 grams will lead to a maximum of 50 years in prison and fines of up to $1 million. If the sale occurred within 1,000 feet of a school ground or recreational area or to minors, the defendant could face additional 10 years in confinement.
Heroin penalties in Iowa are harsh. However, there are defenses to use depending on the case.
