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.