CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL LAWYERS

Los Angeles Meth Labs

The Alarming Reality of Methamphetamine Abuse in California

Methamphetamine (meth) abuse has recently become a severe public health crisis in California. Meth use is highly addictive and can cause long-term damage to a user’s physical and mental health. The drug is dangerous to manufacture and poses a significant risk to the community. Meth production requires the use of highly potent chemicals, posing an immediate danger to others in the immediate surrounding area, as well as severe environmental hazards that can be costly to cleanup. Unfortunately, much of the illegal meth sold across the country is produced in meth labs in California, contributing to the severity of the situation.

Federal and State Laws and Penalties

The production, possession, and distribution of methamphetamine are illegal in California, and the state’s Health and Safety Code outlines four distinct laws that prohibit various aspects of meth production. If you’re facing charges related to manufacturing methamphetamine in California or Los Angeles, it’s crucial to seek the assistance of an experienced drug attorney promptly. They can help guide you through the complicated laws and ensure you’re aware of your options to fight the charges and possible consequences.

The Comprehensive Methamphetamine Act

First enacted in 1996, the Comprehensive Methamphetamine Act aims to combat methamphetamine precursor chemicals, such as pseudoephedrine. The law increased penalties for possessing these chemicals and permitted the seizure and forfeiture of the illegal drugs. It also enhanced fines and punishment for possessing the standard equipment used in meth production. Convictions for violations of this law result in felony charges that carry up to 10 years in prison and substantial fines.

California Health and Safety Code 11379.6 HS

This code prohibits the production, extraction, manufacturing, or compounding of methamphetamine. The law pertains to any attempted assistance with the manufacturing process, even if the offered assistance doesn’t result in an actual contribution to the process. Penalties for violating this statute include up to seven years in state prison and a fine of up to $50,000. If the drug’s manufacturing is associated with the death, severe injury, or presence of a minor younger than 16 years old on the premises, the defendant may face further enhanced penalties.

California Health & Safety Code 11366.5

This statute makes it a criminal offense to knowingly allow another individual to manufacture, sell or store methamphetamine or any other controlled substance in a physical space under your control. Additionally, the law prohibits altering the physical space to deter law enforcement from entering. Offenders who violate this code may face charges for criminal conspiracy under California Penal Code 182 PC or aiding and abetting an illegal operation under California Penal Code 31 PC. Conviction for this offense can result in misdemeanor charges carrying up to 364 days in a county jail, or felony charges carrying up to three years in jail.

California Health & Safety Code 11383 & 11383.5 HS

This code specifically prohibits the possession of precursor chemicals that can be used in the manufacture of phencyclidine (PCP) or methamphetamine. The penalty for possessing these chemicals can include up to six years in county jail and a fine up to $10,000. If the chemical’s possession takes place near a child younger than 16 years of age, the defendant may face additional two-year sentencing. Furthermore, if the possession causes severe injury or harm to a child younger than 16 years of age, the defendant may face an additional five-year sentence.

After You Have Been Charged

If you have been charged with operating a meth lab or manufacturing methamphetamine, it is vital to act quickly to protect your interests. Seek legal counsel from an experienced drug attorney to determine your options and determine the course of action. Your attorney can review your case and build a strong defense to protect your legal rights and secure the most advantageous resolution considering your case’s circumstances.

In summary, California state and federal laws prohibit any aspect of the manufacturing of methamphetamine. With the assistance of an experienced drug attorney, you can craft a legal defense and safeguard your rights to achieve an optimal outcome for your case.