[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Utah has a culture that is unique from other states. From the perspective of outsiders, we live clean, healthy, and overall sober lifestyles. This is perhaps due to more than any other reason for many religious residents who live in Davis, Salt Lake, and Utah County. It is rare to have many such people living together in the United States, sharing a similar ideology. Despite our relatively family-friendly and “restrained” appearance, we have a disproportionate problem with opioid abuse.
A few statistics on Utah’s prescription drug abuse
Utah has ranked as high as number 5 in the total number of deaths due to prescription drug overdose use. Even though that number is currently on a slight downward trend, we saw a 400 percent increase between 2013-2015.
Our home state reports that over 40% of our population is an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. As most of us know, this organization has a strict anti-drug policy. However, a high number of addicts are members. This could primarily be due to users not viewing drugs prescribed by a doctor as illicit, dangerous, or illegal.
Only 1 in 10 residents suffering from a problem receive treatment to help them overcome their addictions.
What should I do if I have a prescription drug charge?
Local law enforcement has cracked down on the recreational use of prescription drugs over the past five years. Any time you take a pill that was not on a prescription written specifically for you, it is a crime. Painkillers such as codeine, ketamine, and hydrocodone, are the most common drugs used recreationally. First offenders are usually charged with a Class B misdemeanor and can face fines and up to 6 months in jail. This can even be applied by accepting a friend’s pill to help with a bad headache.
The severity of the punishments will increase if you are charged to sell the drugs for profit. These possession charges are usually a third-degree felony and can come up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000.00 fine. Punishments such as these are life-changing enough, but the social issues and stigma are oftentimes worse. People often report difficulty finding jobs and other social obstacles in their way. Our legal team knows the challenges someone faces when charged with prescription drug abuse or distribution. If you or a loved one in Utah would like to speak to a knowledgeable defense attorney, contact our office today.
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