What is Fentanyl?
Fentanyl is a prescription drug used to treat severe pain. It is a synthetic opioid, the same class of drugs that includes heroin, as well as oxycodone and other prescription drugs. Fentanyl is 50 to 100 times more powerful than morphine, and 25 to 50 times more powerful than heroin, making it an extremely dangerous drug with a high potential for overdose, even in small amounts. Fentanyl’s recent rise in popularity prompted the DEA to issue a public safety alert.
Brand names for prescription drugs containing fentanyl include:
- Actiq
- Duragesic
- Fentora
- Innovar
- Sublimaze
- Subsys
Penalties for Fentanyl Possession and Related Charges
Along with all other prescription drugs, fentanyl is classified as a Schedule II drug by the DEA under the Controlled Dangerous Substances Act. Schedule II drugs are defined as having:
- A high potential for abuse.
- A currently acceptable medical use in the United States. Fentanyl is used for severe pain relief.
- The potential for severe physical or psychological dependence.
Like other drug charges, Fentanyl charges in NJ vary depending on the amount you are found in possession of. Since Fentanyl is a prescription drug, charges can also vary depending on the way you obtained it.
- Fourth Degree Fentanyl Possession (4 or fewer doses without a prescription)
- Up to $10,000 in fines
- Up to 18 months in NJ State Prison
- Third Degree Fentanyl Possession (Between 5 and 99 doses)
- Up to $200,000 in fines
- Up to 5 years in NJ State Prison
- Obtaining a Fentanyl prescription through fraud, theft, or forgery
- Up to $100,000 in fines
- Up to 5 years in NJ State Prison
- Second Degree Fentanyl Possession (100 doses or more)
- Up to $300,000 in fines
- Up to 10 years in NJ State Prison
Contact Us Today
Illegal Fentanyl possession and distribution have severe repercussions in the state of NJ. At Schneider Freiberger, we have experience in defending clients with all levels of Fentanyl and other prescription drug charges. Contact us today to discuss your options for getting the best result for your case.
