Most people, when you say the word “drugs” think about marijuana, cocaine or heroin. But the term ‘analogue drugs” doesn’t come up in everyday conversation for most people. In fact, ask the average person on the street what an analogue drug is, and they’ll probably have no idea. That’s certainly been our experience. And so we decided to clear up a little of the confusion by unravel this little known subject. So here goes…
What is an analogue/analog drug?
If you look up the word ‘analog’ in the dictionary, you’ll see that is means “a person or thing seen as comparable to another.” In other words, something that is similar to something else, which is your first clue about what analog drugs are.
Analog drugs, sometimes called ‘designer drugs’ are chemical concoctions that are very similar to illegal Schedule 1 and 2 drugs. That means you could get all the effects of cocaine, without having to ingest cocaine. And why would someone want to take a cocaine or heroin substitute? Because at the time they were first created, the federal government had banned illegal drugs. So their ‘knock-off’ counterparts were a legal way to get around the law.
Are analog drugs illegal in Michigan?
Absolutely! In fact, the penalties for making, selling or possessing analog drugs are not really any different to those for regular illegal drugs. In Michigan, the penalties for analog drugs are:
- For Use of Analog Drugs: This is a misdemeanor charge. It is punishable by up to one year, a fine of up to $1,000, or both
- For Possession of Analog Drugs: This is a felony, and is punishable by up to two years in prison, a fine of up to $2,000, or both.
- For Manufacture or Delivery of Analog Drugs: Whether you’re accused of creating, producing, delivering, or intending to deliver analog drugs, you’ll be up against a felony charge. The sentence for any of these crimes is up to 15 years in prison,a fine of up to $250,000, or both.
What are some examples of analog drugs available in Michigan?
Many people, when they first hear about analog drugs, assume they’ve never encountered them before. But chances are, you have. In fact, you may have heard of “bath salts”? It was huge in the mews in recent years. Well, that’s a ‘designer drug’ and it is often abused for its cocaine- -like effects. Another relatively common designer drug available in Michigan is ‘spice’ which people use as a replacement for marijuana.
Just because the drugs aren’t ‘real’ doesn’t mean the charges won’t be!
Some folks right here in Michigan make the mistake of assuming that because analog drugs aren’t ‘real’ drugs, that the case won’t be handled in the same way. Or that the charges won’t be as serious. Well, you couldn’t be more wrong! Analog drug crimes are very serious in Michigan, and if you or a loved one are facing ANY kind of drug charge, you need a skilled drug defense attorney immediately! Analogs are also illegal under federal law.
Contact The Kronzek Firm immediately at 866 766 5245 (866 7No Jail) for a free initial consultation. People who are up against drug charges need a top criminal defense attorney who will protect their rights, and help them stay out of jail or prison. At The Kronzek Firm, we have decades of experience handling drug cases, and can guide you through your case to get the best result. We are available 24/7 to help you work through this difficult time.