Cocaine is a popular recreational drug in Nevada, especially in Las Vegas
and Reno where casinos, bars, and clubs are open throughout the night
until the early morning hours. Coke or blow is often snorted and the short
and temporary effects include intense bliss, decrease in appetite, extreme
sensibility to sight, sound, and touch, as well as irritability.
However, the drug is illegal in the United States. According to Nevada
law, cocaine is a Schedule II controlled substance, which means it is
highly addictive and has limited medical use.
Simple possession of less than 14 grams of cocaine is a Category E felony,
which is the least serious felony class and carries a maximum state prison
sentence of four years and a fine not exceeding $5,000. However, if you
plead guilty or no contest, the court will grant you a “deferral
of judgment,” meaning your criminal charges will be dismissed if
you complete certain court-ordered conditions (e.g., drug treatment/rehabilitation,
court hearings, random drug testing, etc.).
Deferral of judgment is generally granted to first-time offenders. On the
other hand, the District Attorney may reduce the felony charge down to
a misdemeanor, which carries a maximum jail term of six months and a fine
no more than $1,000.
Otherwise, Category E convictions in Nevada are punishable by probation
and a suspended sentence. Yet, if you have at least two prior felony convictions,
you may have to serve the prison sentence.
In addition, possession with intent to sell cocaine is a Category D felony,
punishable by imprisonment for up to four years and a maximum fine of
$5,000 – with no opportunity for a deferral of judgment. Selling,
transporting, or manufacturing cocaine is a Category C felony, which can
result in a prison term of up to five years and a maximum fine of $10,000.
