Colorado Ecstasy Charges
Ecstasy is commonly considered a recreational drug, but the criminal justice system takes ecstasy charges as seriously as any other drug crime. Ecstasy is the street name for Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), also sometimes called “Molly.” Despite its deceptive name and reputation as a party drug, ecstasy is a dangerous and highly addictive stimulant, sometimes mixed with additional dangerous chemicals, including rat poison.
Facing ecstasy drug charges in Colorado Springs is a serious matter, with life-altering implications for a conviction, including jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
Understanding Penalties for Ecstasy Possession Convictions In Colorado
Using ecstasy is a drug crime in Colorado with misdemeanor criminal charges for use or possession. These charges immediately escalate into felony charges for making, selling, or distributing ecstasy. Generally, the larger the amount of ecstasy involved, the more severe the penalties. Penalties also increase for subsequent convictions.
A conviction of possessing or consuming ecstasy is a level 2 drug misdemeanor in Colorado with the following penalties:
- Up to one year in jail and fines of $50 to $750, or
- Probation for up to one year, with up to 120 days in jail and up to $500 in fines
Or, with a strong defense, the court may instead impose a mandatory drug diversion program for rehabilitation and treatment rather than incarceration and fines.
- A fourth conviction for ecstasy possession escalates the charges to a level 4 felony
- Possessing more than four grams of ecstasy is a level 4 drug felony with six to 12 months in prison and fines of up to $100,000
Giving any amount of ecstasy to a minor who is at least two years younger than the adult is a level 1 drug felony with up to 32 years in prison and fines of $5,000 to $1 million.
Penalties for Manufacturing, Selling, or Distributing Ecstasy In Colorado
Charges for making, selling, or distributing ecstasy in Colorado are very serious, with penalties increasing based on the amount of ecstasy involved. Penalties for conviction on selling, manufacturing, or dispensing ecstasy include the following:
- Possessing ecstasy for sale or distribution in amounts of less than four grams is a Level 4 felony, resulting in six months to one year in jail, mandatory one-year parole, and fines of $1,000 to $100,000
- Possessing ecstasy for sale or distribution in amounts of four to 14 grams is a Level 3 drug felony, with 2-4 years in prison, mandatory one-year parole, and fines of $2,000-$500,000, plus a “drug-offender surcharge” of $2,000
- Possessing for sale or distribution 14 to 225 grams of ecstasy is a Level 2 drug felony with four to eight years in prison, 2 years of mandatory parole, and fines of $3,000-$750,000 plus a drug offender surcharge of $3,000
- A conviction for possession with intent to sell or distribute more than 225 grams of ecstasy is a Level 1 drug felony with a minimum of 12 years in prison
All of the above penalties increase for subsequent conviction or with aggravating circumstances, such as possessing or using a firearm while committing a drug crime, or selling ecstasy within 1,000 feet of a school or playground.
How Can a Colorado Springs Drug Crimes Lawyer Help?
A conviction on a Colorado ecstasy charge has life-altering impacts, including the possibility of incarceration and a permanent criminal record that may impact your education, career, and ability to rent a home. You are entitled to an assertive legal defense.
To exercise this right, call Anaya Law Group for prompt action and a well-executed legal defense strategy based on the unique circumstances of your case. Schedule your free case evaluation.