Heroin Addictions in Small Communities on the Rise

 Posted on May 19, 2016 in Drug Crimes

Recently, the Daily Tribune reported that heroin use in small communities throughout Wisconsin is on the rise. When paired with the severity of the state’s penalties for drug crimes and the already strained prison budget, this influx is grounds for concern. But there are none that may suffer more than those that use and may eventually be charged with a drug crime.  

Heroin and Addiction

Considered a highly addictive substance, heroin is an illicit drug processed from the opiate morphine. Those who use are at an increased risk for severe health complications, including overdoses, heart problems, skin infections or abscesses, and diseased organs. Unfortunately, once the addiction takes hold, many would rather face the risk of a complication than endure the intense withdrawal symptoms. In some cases, this may mean obtaining the drugs by any means necessary, which can further add to their already hefty drug penalties.

Understanding Drug Charge Penalties in Wisconsin

President Obama may have just shortened the sentences for 61 non-violent drug offenders (some of which were serving life sentences), but drug charges in Wisconsin still carry hefty penalties. In fact, even first-time offenders can receive hundreds to hundreds of thousands in fines and anywhere from six months to several years in prison, depending on the circumstances of their arrest (amount of drug in possession, location of the crime, etc.). Even more concerning is that heroin charges may sometimes overlap at the state and federal level, further increasing the user’s penalties.

Addiction Is Not a Crime

As with all forms of addiction, heroin addiction is not a crime; it is a mental health issue that should be treated as such. Unfortunately, state and federal laws have not yet caught up with this line of thinking. As such, anyone who is facing a drug charge should ensure they have a quality criminal defense attorney on their side.

Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP has been serving the state of Wisconsin since 1968. Skilled and experienced, we can build a case in your defense and will work hard to achieve the best possible outcome for your unique situation. Choose a Milwaukee criminal defense attorney that has your best interest in mind. Call 414-271-1440 and schedule your consultation today.

Sources:

http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/obama-shortens-prison-sentences-61-drug-offenders-article-1.2582513

http://www.wisconsinrapidstribune.com/story/news/2016/03/18/heroin-scourge-his-small-communities-hard/81874552/

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/961/IV/41/3g/e

http://drugabuse.com/library/heroin-abuse/