Drugs and the law
The penalty for getting caught with illegal drugs depends on what type of drug you’re caught with and the circumstances of the situation. You may get a warning and have the drugs confiscated, but the penalties could be a lot more serious. This chart describes the categories of illegal drugs (Class A being the most harmful) and the penalties for possession and supply.
CLASS A
Cocaine, crack cocaine, ecstasy, magic mushrooms, heroin, LSD, crystal meth
MAXIMUM PENALTY FOR POSSESSION: Up to seven years in jail
MAXIMUM PENALTY FOR SUPPLY: Life in jail and an unlimited fine
CLASS B
Cannabis, speed (Class A if prepared for injection)
MAXIMUM PENALTY FOR POSSESSION:Up to five years in jail
MAXIMUM PENALTY FOR SUPPLY: Up to fourteen years in jail
CLASS C
Ketamine, anabolic steroids, illegal possession of prescription drugs like tranquillisers
MAXIMUM PENALTY FOR POSSESSION:Up to two years in jail
MAXIMUM PENALTY FOR SUPPLY:Up to fourteen years in jail
It is illegal for under-18s to buy or be bought alcohol, unless they are 16 or 17 and having it with a meal in a bar or restaurant. It is also illegal for under-16s to be sold tobacco. Drink-driving and drug-driving are illegal and very dangerous no matter what age you are.
To find out more information about certain drugs, their effects, and the risks involved you can visit the FRANK website: www.talktofrank.com.
If you are worried about your own or a friend or family member’s drug use, or if you just want some reliable information, you can call their free confidential helpline at 0800 77 66 00.
