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Ecstasy Possession in Detroit
Under Michigan Penal Code Section 333.7403, a person can possess ecstasy – also called Methylenedioxymethamphetamine or MDMA – in multiple situations. There is a common misconception that you must have ecstasy on your person for a possession charge to stick.
However, nothing could be further from the truth. If you are found with ecstasy in your home, at work, or anywhere else where you may be deemed “in control,” you could be charged with possession.
Ecstasy Possession First-Time Offenders
The consequences for an ecstasy conviction can be severe. Fortunately, Michigan provides opportunities for first-time offenders to get their charges reduced or dismissed under Michigan Penal Code Section 7411 by completing probation.
Defendants under twenty-one could instead have their conviction taken under the Holmes Youthful Trainee Act. Once the terms are completed, the charges can be dismissed. However, these outcomes may not be possible for all defendants who have been charged with possession of ecstasy in Detroit.
Factors That Impact Ecstasy Sentencing
If there are aggravating factors present, like a child being involved, a lack of remorse, use of a weapon or force, or someone being injured in some way, you can expect harsher penalties.
For ecstasy convictions in particular, if you are found to have considerable amounts in your possession, you can expect to face a more severe sentence. What’s worse, you may even find that you are charged with drug dealing, trafficking, distribution, or other drug crimes in addition to your ecstasy possession charges.
Ecstasy Penalties & Consequences
Under Michigan Penal Code 333.7403, even a tiny amount could result in a prison sentence of up to 10 years and fines as high as $15,000. Additionally, you can expect to have your driver’s license suspended for a minimum of six months for a first offense and one year for a second conviction.
If the amount you are accused of having warrants ecstasy distribution charges – 50 to 450 grams – the penalties could be worse under Michigan Penal Code 333.7401. Here, you could spend up to 20 years in jail and pay fines as high as $25,000.
Possession of ecstasy with intent to distribute more than 1,000 grams is punishable by life in prison and fines as high as $1,000,000.
Jail time and fines aside, there are other criminal and collateral penalties you may also have to deal with if you are found guilty of ecstasy possession in Detroit, including:
- Random drug testing
- Curfew
- Regular meetings with a parole or probation officer
- Court-ordered substance abuse treatment
- Suspension or revocation of your professional licenses
- Community service
- Restitution
- Court fees
- Trouble finding gainful employment
- Child custody or visitation issues
- Court-ordered mental health counseling
- Immigration or citizenship issues
- Trouble finding safe or affordable housing
Essentially, your entire life could be turned upside down if you are convicted of ecstasy possession in Detroit. You must take steps to avoid a conviction.
