Skip to main content
Find a Lawyer
Please enter a legal issue and/or a location
Begin typing to search, use arrow keys to navigate, use enter to select

Colorado Cocaine Laws

Connecticut drug possession laws are complicated. State laws attempt to give drug abusers a chance for rehabilitation through drug intervention programs. Connecticut’s drug laws treat possession of narcotics and other scheduled controlled substances as misdemeanors for first offenders.

Connecticut is unusual among states in that it has different sale and distribution laws for drug-dependent individuals and others. A drug-dependent person may receive a lower penalty for a first offense than a non-addicted individual for a similar offense.

Connecticut law defines cocaine, crack cocaine, and heroin as narcotics. The legislature makes updates to the Connecticut General Statutes for drug issues such as sales and distribution. For example, the distance prohibiting sales of cocaine within 1500 feet of a school zone, daycare center, or public housing project was decreased to 200 feet.

Possession of drug paraphernalia is a Class C misdemeanor. The penalties increase if the defendant is transporting the items or using them in or near a school. Paraphernalia can be any item used to ingest illegal drugs. A spoon or straw is an ordinary kitchen item unless it's used in connection with cocaine.

Cocaine Statutes in Connecticut

The charges and penalties under Connecticut cocaine laws are listed below.

Connecticut Cocaine Possession Statutes

First offense

Second Offense

Subsequent Offenses

§ 21a-279 Simple Possession

Class A misdemeanor

Treatment program

Persistent offender (53a-40)

§ 21a-277 Possession for distribution or sale (drug-addicted person)

15 years/$50,000

30 years/$100,000

30 years/$250,000

§ 21a-278 Possession for distribution or sale, narcotics (not addicted)

(a)(1) (A) (i) one ounce or more of heroin or methadone, or (ii) one-half ounce or more of cocaine or cocaine in a free-base form:

five years to life

 

§ 21a-278a Possession for distribution or sale to minor (not addicted)

Two years

 

 

§ 21a-267 Possession of drug paraphernalia

Class C misdemeanor

 

 

 

Many of these are mandatory minimum sentences. Unlike some states, Connecticut has not abolished mandatory minimums. Possession charges and penalties remain steep for the distribution and sale of all drugs except marijuana. Cocaine possession is also a federal crime. Federal prison sentences are longer than those given by the states.

Facing Cocaine Charges in Connecticut? Get Legal Advice From a Criminal Defense Attorney

If you’re facing drug charges in Connecticut, you need legal advice from an experienced Connecticut drug crime attorney. An expert in drug cases and criminal law can put their experience to work for you. 

Was this helpful?

You Don’t Have To Solve This on Your Own – Get a Lawyer’s Help

Meeting with a lawyer can help you understand your options and how to best protect your rights. Visit our attorney directory to find a lawyer near you who can help.

Or contact an attorney near you:

Next Steps: Search for a Local Attorney

Contact a qualified attorney.

Begin typing to search, use arrow keys to navigate, use enter to select

Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?

  • Complex drug crimes usually require a lawyer
  • Experienced drug crime lawyers can seek to reduce or eliminate criminal penalties
  • Drug crime laws involve many specifics that can quickly change a case

Get tailored legal advice and ask a lawyer questions. Many Colorado attorneys offer free consultations for Drug Crime.

 

 If you need an attorney, find one right now.

Copied to clipboard

Find a Lawyer

More Options