In late 2018, Oklahoma passed new laws making simple possession of controlled dangerous substances (illegal drugs) a misdemeanor. However, other drug crimes such as manufacturing a controlled substance remain felonies in the state. Here is what you need to know about manufacturing drugs in Oklahoma.
What Constitutes Manufacture of a Controlled Substance In Tulsa?
In Oklahoma, any person who offers, solicits, attempts, endeavors, or conspires to manufacture illegal drugs can be convicted of a felony. Okla. Stat. tit. 63 § 2-408
Under this statute, even attempting to manufacture a controlled substance is a felony offense.
To “manufacture” a controlled substance means:
- to take any part in the production, preparation, processing, and propagation of a controlled dangerous substance; either
- directly or indirectly by extraction from substances of natural or synthetic origin; or
- independently by means of chemical synthesis; or
- by a combination of extraction and chemical synthesis.
This includes the typical meth lab, but it also includes growing marijuana.
A “manufacturer” is anyone who packages, repackages, or labels any container of any controlled dangerous substance. And “controlled dangerous substance” is any drug categorized in Schedules I through V of the Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Act of Oklahoma. Okla. Stat. tit. 63 § 2-101
Mere possession of certain substances known to be used in the manufacture of illicit drugs can be used as evidence of an intent to manufacture, and chargeable under this statute. You don’t actually have to manufacture the drug to be found guilty of this crime. Okla. Stat. tit. 63 § 2-401
Penalties for Manufacturing a Controlled Substance
Depending on the substance involved, you could face life in prison in addition to substantial fines. Under the law, the minimum amount of jail time for a first conviction is seven years to life and a hefty fine.
Prison time can increase with subsequent convictions.
If you are caught manufacturing substantial quantities of a controlled substance, you could spend event more time in prison if you are convicted of aggravated manufacturing.
If you have questions regarding this area of law, bring your questions to an experienced Tulsa criminal defense attorney. This is not a matter that you should try to handle on your own. Your attorney can best advise you regarding the law, the facts of your case, and defenses that may be available to you.
Free Consultation: Tulsa Criminal Defense Attorney
When you are facing charges of any kind, it is always better to do it with the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney. Options are available to you. Call for a free consultation with an experienced Tulsa criminal defense attorney to discuss your available legal options.
Contact the Tulsa Criminal Defense Law Firm by calling 918-756-9600 or toll free at 1-888-447-7262.
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