Methamphetamine is a crystalline white powder that is odorless, bitter-tasting and dissolves easily in water.
Methamphetamine, also known by numerous other pseudonyms such as meth, ice, crank, glass, geeter, trash, and christina, is a concentrated, crystallized form of illegally manufactured methamphetamine. It is a highly addictive and very dangerous drug. If you live in Michigan then there are some important facts that you need to know about meth.
Is meth a problem in Michigan?
In a word – yes! Meth use has increased significantly in the last few years here in Michigan. There are more and more instances of discarded ‘one-pot’ meth labs being discovered abandoned in rural and wooded area around our state. Due to the hazardous and chemically unstable nature of meth labs, the expense involved in cleaning up ‘meth dump sites’ is quite high. The expensive and dangerous cleanups require specially trained members of a haz mat team.
What does meth look like?
According to the Foundation For a Drug-Free World, methamphetamine usually comes in the form of “a crystalline white powder that is odorless, bitter-tasting and dissolves easily in water or alcohol.” It is usually white, however, other colors have been noted, including brown, yellow-gray, orange and even pink. The powder is sometimes compressed into a pill form to be taken orally. ‘Crystal meth’ usually comes in the form of clear chunky crystals that resemble ice.
How is meth made?
Meth is ‘cooked’ using one of two methods. Either in small quantities using the one-pot or ‘shake-and-bake’ method, which is far more common, or produced in much larger quantities in a fixed lab. Large lab set ups, like the one seen in the ever popular Breaking Bad are actually very rare. Most people in Michigan who produce methamphetamine do so using the one-pot method, since it is convenient, cheap, and has the benefit of being mobile.
Is meth dangerous?
Yes, for sure. For two reasons. First, the methods used in the production of meth are highly toxic. The fumes produced as a byproduct are highly flammable and numerous meth cooks have died or been severely injured when their labs exploded. Children living in meth houses often suffer medical side-effects, and neighbors have lost their homes to the resulting fire. Secondly, because meth is highly addictive.
Is meth illegal in Michigan?
Yes. The possession, use, production and sale of meth are all illegal in Michigan. Under Michigan law, methamphetamine use is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail and possible fine of up to $2,000. Meth possession is a felony. The sentence for possession is more severe. You could go to prison for up to 10 years, pay a fine of up to $15,000, or both. The manufacture and delivery of meth are also felonies, but these are considered to be much more serious, and are punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Federal law also imposes harsh prison terms for making meth.
Can CPS take my kids because of meth?
If you are caught making meth with children in your home, or meth components are present on your property, you should expect that Children’s Protective Services of Michigan (CPS) will become extensively involved in your life. CPS considers meth use and production to be abusive and neglectful to children. If you are being investigated by both CPS and the police, you are going to need a Michigan attorney who regularly practices CPS defense as well as Michigan drug defense. These are two separate areas of the law and each has its own expertise.
Will I need an attorney for meth charges?
Absolutely! Whether you are facing criminal charges for drugs, or CPS has petitioned the court to remove your children, you are going to need a skilled defense attorney with years of experience handling each. At The Kronzek Firm, our attorneys have spent decades helping the people of Michigan accused of drug use, possession and delivery, and also those who have been targeted by CPS. Call us immediately at 866-766-5245. An attorney is standing by 24/7 to answer your questions and help you determine the best options for your future.