San Antonio Drug Possession Attorney: What is a Controlled Substance in Penalty Group 1-A?

As a criminal defense attorney in San Antonio, Texas, I have represented numerous clients who have been charged with drug offenses, including possession and distribution of controlled substances. One of the most frequently asked questions I receive from my clients is about the different penalty groups in Texas and the consequences of being charged with a drug offense under each group. In this blog post, I will discuss Penalty Group 1-A in Texas and provide information on the controlled substances that fall under this group, the penalties for possession and distribution, and how my law firm, Thornton Criminal Defense, can help.

In Texas, controlled substances are categorized into different penalty groups based on their potential for abuse and medical value. The penalty group is determined by the Texas Health and Safety Code, and the higher the penalty group, the more serious the consequences for possession and distribution of the controlled substance. Currently, there are seven penalty groups in Texas: 1, 1-A, 1-B, 2, 2-A, 3, and 4. In this post, we will focus on penalty group 1-A.

Penalty Group 1-A Controlled Substances:

There are only two substances listed in Penalty Group 1-A in Texas:

Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)

LSD, or lysergic acid diethylamide, is a powerful hallucinogenic drug that is included in Penalty Group 1-A of controlled substances in Texas. It is a synthetic substance that was first synthesized by Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann in 1938. LSD is classified as a Schedule I drug by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), meaning it has a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use.

LSD is typically taken orally, in the form of a small, paper square (referred to as a "tab") that is impregnated with the drug. It can also be taken in liquid or capsule form. The drug is odorless and tasteless, and its effects typically begin within 30-90 minutes of ingestion and can last for up to 12 hours.

The physical effects of LSD include dilated pupils, increased heart rate and blood pressure, and sweating. It can also cause changes in perception, mood, and thought processes, often leading to vivid hallucinations and altered states of consciousness. The drug can produce both positive and negative effects, depending on the individual and the circumstances in which it is taken.

LSD became popular in the 1960s as part of the counterculture movement and was widely used in experimental settings. However, due to its potential for abuse and harmful effects, the drug was eventually classified as a Schedule I substance in the United States. Despite its illegality, LSD remains a popular recreational drug, and its use is associated with a range of physical and psychological risks, including paranoia, panic attacks, and flashbacks.

Penalty Group 1-A Synthetic compounds:

This includes compounds that are structurally derived from 2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine by substitution at the 1-amino nitrogen atom with a benzyl substituent is known as 1-(benzylamino)-2,5-dimethoxyphenethylamine or benzyl-2C-B. This compound belongs to the family of phenethylamine derivatives.

The substitution of the amino nitrogen atom with a benzyl group adds a bulky and lipophilic moiety to the molecule, which can affect its pharmacological properties. Benzyl-2C-B has been reported to have similar effects to those of 2C-B, including psychedelic and empathogenic effects, although it is generally reported to be more potent and longer-lasting.

The possession of any substance classified in Penalty Group 1-a can have severe consequences. Even if you are found with a small amount of any of these drugs, you may face felony charges. The penalties become more severe if you are caught with the intent to distribute.

Penalties for Possession and Distribution:

Possession of Controlled Substance in Penalty Group 1-A

Because this group deals exclusively with LSD, the penalties are separated into "dosage units"

• Less than 20 units— State Jail Felony

• More than 20 units and less than 80 units— Third-Degree Felony

• More than 80 units and less than 4,000 units— Second-Degree Felony

• More than 4,000 and less than 8,00 units— First-Degree Felony

• 8,000 or more units - Super Felony punishable by 15-99 years in prison, fine up to $250,000, or both.

Delivery, Intent to Deliver, and Manufacture

• Less than 20 units— State Jail Felony

• More than 20 units and less than 80 units— Second-Degree Felony

• More than 80 units and less than 4,000 units— First-Degree Felony

• More than 4,000 and less than 8,00 units— First-Degree Felony

• 8,000 or more units - Super Felony punishable by 15-99 years in prison, fine up to $250,000, or both.

Being in possession of a controlled substance is a severe offense that can lead to a felony conviction. This conviction can have grave consequences, such as the loss of employment, housing, and other civil liberties. To protect your rights and navigate the legal system, it is crucial to have an experienced criminal defense attorney by your side.

San Antonio Drug Possession Attorney

The possession or delivery of a controlled substance in Penalty Group 1-A in Texas is a serious offense that can result in severe legal consequences. If you are facing drug-related charges in Texas, it is essential to seek legal representation from a skilled and experienced criminal defense attorney who can protect your rights and advocate for your best interests.

At Thornton Criminal Defense, we understand the complexity and seriousness of drug-related offenses and have a proven track record of success in representing clients in Texas. We offer free consultations and will work tirelessly to provide you with the best possible legal representation.

With over 13 years of combined experience, attorney Brad Thornton has the knowledge, skill, and dedication to provide aggressive representation to clients charged with drug offenses in Texas. We pride ourselves on our ability to develop a comprehensive defense strategy tailored to each client's unique circumstances.

If you or a loved one is facing drug-related charges in Texas, don't hesitate to contact Thornton Criminal Defense at 210-439-5627.