Recent reports from the DEA indicate meth use is on the rise in New Jersey. As portrayed in shows like Breaking Bad, meth has wreaked havoc in the Midwest for quite some time. Now it’s making inroads into the East Coast. With these new developments, it’s important to stay informed. Here’s a few things you need to know about meth, New Jersey, and drug laws.

Basic Meth Facts

• Methamphetamines are stimulants that can be smoked, swallowed, snorted, or injected.
• Meth use can cause extreme weight loss, “meth mouth,” intense itching, anxiety, loss of sleep, paranoia, and hallucinations.
• Currently, no FDA-approved medications exist to treat meth addiction (unlike suboxone or methadone for heroin addiction). Treatment usually involves cognitive behavioral therapy.

Meth, New Jersey, and Use

• Most meth distributed in New Jersey comes from Mexico and has a very high purity level.
• Officials estimate that meth use in New Jersey has quadrupled over the past four years.
• “From 2015 to 2017, the DEA Northeast Regional Lab has seen a 5,657 percent increase in the total weight of methamphetamine exhibits analyzed from 4,468 grams in 2015 to 257,206 grams in 2017.” – Drug Enforcement Administration
• Last Summer, two men were arrested in Mercer County for possessing over 50 pounds of crystal meth.

Meth, New Jersey, and Law

• Meth is a “Schedule II” substance, “which means it has a high potential for abuse, minimal medical use, and can lead to serious psychological and physical dependence.”
• The New Jersey law covering meth possession is N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10. According to this, possessing meth is a third degree crime with a fine of up to $35,000.
• Depending on the quantity possessed, and where caught, the crime may also include jail time of up to 5 years.

Meth, New Jersey, and Your Lawyer

So, if you face drug charges and need a lawyer, you need someone with experience who knows the complex laws inside and out. Look no further than Mark Catanzaro.With over 30 years of experience, he has the competency and know-how to defend your case. Contact his law offices today!