Prescription Drug Crimes in Long Island, New York

Prescription drug abuse has become a growing problem in New York and across the country. Drug crimes used to involve such controlled substances as marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and other street drugs. While these still comprise many state and federal court cases, prescription drug crimes of unauthorized possession and distribution are now becoming more abundant. Prescription drugs are mistakenly seen as a safer alternative to street drugs. Painkillers, sedatives, and stimulants such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, antidepressants, and others are extremely addictive, however, which leads to drug abuse and related crimes. According to statistics published by the Foundation for a Drug-Free World, prescription drugs were the cause of the largest percentage of drug overdoses in 2005. 45 percent of overdose deaths stemmed from prescription drugs while 39 percent were from street drugs.

In 2007, the DEA reported that the painkiller Fentanyl caused the deaths of more than 1,000 people. It is reportedly 30 to 50 times stronger than heroin. Key findings reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also show that prescription drug use is rising in the U.S. These drugs are now increasingly becoming a part of DUI arrests and traffic accidents. The most frequently abused drugs which are obtained through illegal prescriptions and behavior such as doctor-shopping include OxyContin, Vicodin, and Xanax. A University of Michigan study showed that Vicodin was the most frequently abused prescription drug among high school seniors.

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Long Island

Law enforcement and prosecutors have become more focused on locating and punishing those who violate the law through illegal prescription drug activity. Those accused of such crimes may face prejudicial treatment and a negative view by these agencies and should, therefore, seek highly-qualified legal representation. Being charged with a prescription drug crime can inflict a social stigma and ruin careers and reputations as well as putting the accused at risk for jail or prison sentences, heavy fines and court costs, probation, and other penalties.

Prime & O'Brien LLP is a criminal defense firm based in Long Island that is dedicated to fighting for and protecting your constitutional rights in any criminal case. The firm represents clients in all types of state and federal crimes, from drug crimes to DWI, theft crimes, juvenile crimes, internet crimes, weapons charges, and more. The legal team at the firm has close to 20 years of experience in criminal law and has a strong track record of success as litigators. No matter how difficult or complex your case may appear to be, contact the firm for a free consultation. Get the skilled legal advice and representation you need to fight the charges and obtain the best possible case result.