Of all illegal drugs, heroin is one of the most destructive. Readily available, extremely addictive, and increasingly inexpensive, heroin is a growing problem in Chicago and its surrounding counties. Previously only thought to be a serious issue in the inner city, use of the drug has spread to the suburbs, and the number deaths associated with heroin overdose has skyrocketed.
Use of the drug is destructive enough, but Illinois law makes drug possession of even 15 grams a Class 1 felony. Many users find themselves trapped in addiction and saddled with a fine or prison sentence. However, there is hope for recovery for addicts arrested in Illinois.
Heroin: A Dangerous Escape
The stereotypical view of the heroin addict is supported by pop culture depictions in films like Trainspotting and Requiem for a Dream. Dirty, disheveled 20-somethings squatting in a filthy hovel, arms covered in track marks, using dirty needles. The reality, however, is that heroin is becoming more and more prevalent in suburban settings. The number of deaths from heroin in three of Chicago’s counties (Will, Kane, and DuPage) has drastically increased. In DuPage, as of November 19, there have been 42 deaths from heroin, up from under 30 for each year between 2009 and 2011.
Solutions in Illinois
There are many organizations within Illinois that are dedicated to the treatment of heroin addiction. This can include counseling, meetings, and treatment with methadone. However, the laws of Illinois seem geared toward decreasing the impact of heroin by severely punishing its possession. The possession of a mere 15 grams is a Class X felony, punishable by six to 30 years imprisonment. Any less than 15 grams is a Class 1 felony, punishable by a $250,000 fine.
Though Illinois laws against heroin possession is harsh, there is an alternative to prison that may be available. Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities, or TASC, works together with the judiciary to refer the offender to a substance abuse counseling service in the community. If the judge agrees, the offender would plead guilty to the crime, then be sentenced to probation with mandatory drug treatment. The goal is to prevent the incarceration of those who are victims of substance addiction. Once the treatment plan is completed, an offender can move to have the conviction vacated, helping him or her to more easily navigate the rest of life.
DuPage County Drug Attorney
If you have been arrested for possession of heroin, an experienced Illinois criminal lawyer can help. He can attack the arrest or the search that turned up the heroin. He may be able to have you sentenced to drug treatment. Contact the Law Offices of Thomas Glasgow, Ltd. today for a free consultation.