Alaska Cocaine Laws

In Alaska, cocaine is one of the most significant drug threats, along with methamphetamine, opioids, and other synthetic opioids. This article looks at the specifics of cocaine laws in Alaska, from classification to penalties for possession and sale of cocaine.

Schedule of Controlled Substances

Alaska categorizes drug offenses based on the kind of controlled substances involved and the act the defendant took part in. For instance, a person who sells cocaine to a minor can be found guilty of an unclassified felony. But simple possession of cocaine for personal drug use is a misdemeanor.

Alaska's Controlled Substance Schedule lists cocaine under Schedule IIA. There are generally six drug categories ranging from Schedule IA to Schedule VIA. The dangers and risks posed by each drug determine their drug schedule regardless of their medical use.

Under this drug schedule, cocaine falls under Schedule IIA together with other controlled substances, including:

• Peyote
• Psilocybin (magic mushrooms)
• Phencyclidine (PCP)
• Ecstasy/Molly (MDMA)
• Methamphetamine
• Adderall (amphetamine)
• Amobarbital
• Pentobarbital

For a complete list of drug classifications in Alaska, see this article about Alaska Penalties for Heroin, Fentanyl, and Other Opioids.

What Are the Penalties for Possession of Cocaine in Alaska?

Alaska law criminalizes two kinds of conduct related to controlled substances: drug trafficking and drug possession. Drug possession offenses often have lower penalties compared with drug trafficking.

Possessory offenses mean the law criminalizes the fact that you have a controlled substance for personal drug use. Possession manifests in two ways: actual and constructive possession.

Actual possession is when a person directly has access to the controlled substance. It should either be directly with them or nearby. Constructive possession is when the person does not physically have the substance. Instead, they have control, authority, or right over the controlled substance.

Alaska drug laws consider possession of cocaine as a fifth-degree misconduct involving a controlled substance. It is a Class A misdemeanor, with a penalty of up to 365 days or one year of imprisonment. This penalty applies for possession of any amount of cocaine if it is not a prescription drug.

What Are the Penalties for Sale of Cocaine in Alaska?

The definition of sale for controlled substances includes acts such as delivering, distributing, or dispensing controlled substances. This definition covers more than monetary transactions. It also covers bartering, gifting, or any prescription-less transfers.

The chart below details the penalties for selling controlled substances in Alaska state law.

For information about other drugs, see FindLaw's articles on Alaska's Cocaine Laws and Alaska's Marijuana Laws.

Seek Legal Advice from a Drug Crime Attorney

Understanding drug laws in Alaska can be challenging and intimidating. If you or someone you know is facing charges related to cocaine or other controlled substances seek the advice of a drug crime attorney. They can protect your rights under state and federal laws and clarify your questions and concerns. Whether in Anchorage or Juneau, lawyers can offer the support you need.