Due to the dangerousness of meth and its manufacturing process, the State of Illinois qualifies meth delivery crimes as felony offenses. Though depending on the circumstances of the offense, there are both regular and aggravated versions of this crime. Furthermore, the punishment for delivering meth generally fluctuates based on the quantity in question.
Delivery of Meth
720 ILCS 646/55 explains the Illinois laws against and penalties for delivery of meth. Under this section, it is unlawful to deliver, sell, give, or otherwise transfer possession of meth. It is also illegal to possess meth under circumstances that indicate an intent to deliver.
Any person who violates this section by delivering or possessing with intent to deliver:
- Less than 5 grams of meth — Is guilty of a Class 2 felony, including a possible sentence of three to seven years in prison and up to $25,000 in criminal fines;
- Between 5 and 15 grams of meth — Is guilty of a Class 1 felony, including a possible sentence of four to 15 years in prison and up to $25,000 in criminal fines;
- Between 15 and 100 grams of meth — Is guilty of a Class X felony, including a possible sentence of six to 30 years in prison and up to $100,000 in criminal fines;
- Between 100 and 400 grams of meth — Is guilty of a Class X felony, including a possible sentence of nine to 40 years in prison and up to $200,000 in criminal fines;
- Between 400 and 900 grams of meth — Is guilty of a Class X felony, including a possible sentence of 12 to 50 years in prison and up to $300,000 in criminal fines; or
- More than 900 grams of meth — Is guilty of a Class X felony, including a possible sentence of 15 to 60 years in prison and up to $400,000 in criminal fines.
Aggravated Delivery of Meth
Section 55 also details the Illinois laws against and penalties for aggravated delivery of meth. The aggravated version of this offense can apply when the offender:
- Delivers meth to a minor under 18 years old;
- Employs or otherwise engages a minor to participate in delivery;
- Commits the offense in a vehicle or structure with a firearm, explosive device, or similar security measures;
- Delivers meth at a school or on school property; or
- Delivers meth to a woman, knowing that the woman is pregnant.
Any person who commits aggravated delivery or possession with intent involving:
- Less than 5 grams of meth — Is guilty of a Class 1 felony, including the same or similar sentence described in the previous section;
- Between 5 and 15 grams of meth — Is guilty of a Class X felony, including a possible sentence of six to 30 years in prison and up to $100,000 in criminal fines;
- Between 15 and 100 grams of meth — Is guilty of a Class X felony, including a possible sentence of eight to 40 years in prison and up to $200,000 in criminal fines; or
- More than 100 grams of meth — Is guilty of a Class X felony, including a possible sentence of 10 to 50 years in prison and up to $300,000 in criminal fines.
Do You Need Legal Help?
No matter what the criminal offense, all charges are serious. A sound strategy and an aggressive defense are essential for a positive outcome. To protect your rights in such situations, it is highly advisable to retain legal counsel from an experienced criminal defense attorney.
The Prior Law Firm in Bloomington, Illinois, has proven experience in matters of criminal defense. If you need legal help with criminal defense, contact us today for a free consultation. You can reach The Prior Law Firm by phone at (309) 827-4300, email at johnprior@thepriorlawfirm.com or by completing an online form.