The New York Times spent several months examining fatal drug overdoses that led to homicide charges in several states. The effort included Pennsylvania, where one in four people charged with a drug crime is under the age of 25.

A teenager can be charged as a drug dealer in many states, even if they were giving the illegal substance away to a friend and regardless of how they got it. Homicide charges can result in the case of an accidental overdose.

How do teens gain access to illegal drugs?

Smartphones have opened a world of opportunity for teenagers to find illegal drugs for sale. Teens often get drugs by:

• Pooling their money
• Those with access to drugs use, sell or share them
• Prescription drugs stolen from parents and grandparents

Low street cost for prescription drugs is a factor

Along with easy access, relatively low costs make many popular prescription drugs attainable for teenagers. In Pennsylvania, some of the average prices are:

• Adderall: $10 per 30mg pill
• Xanax: $9 per 2mg pill
• Vyvanse: $2 per 20mg pill
• Hydrocodone: $2 per 5mg or 325mg pill

Seek legal help if your child is charged with a drug crime

Being charged with a misdemeanor or felony drug crime can be devastating to anyone's future, especially a teenager. A drug conviction can bring fines, jail time and lead to a child being unable to find a job or accepted into college. An experienced criminal defense attorney in Pennsylvania can protect a teen's rights by making sure authorities followed correct procedures, and work to provide the best possible outcome for your child's future.