Source: https://www.bestcrimeattorney.com/practice-areas/drug-crimes/sale-of-a-controlled-substance-methamphetamines
Timestamp: 2019-04-25 04:17:38+00:00

Document:
Retaining methamphetamines, or certain, other, controlled substances for sale is charged as a felony under California Health & Safety Code §11378. This statute also makes it illegal to have, for sale, non-narcotic controlled substances, such as stimulants, acid, PCP, ecstasy, anabolic steroids and ketamine. Compare this statute to H&S §11377 – which prohibits the illegal use of methamphetamines.
Methamphetamines were developed in the 20th century from a parent drug, amphetamine. They were originally used as nasal decongestants and bronchial inhalers. Similar to amphetamines, methamphetamines are stimulants that increase energy and can bring about a certain sense of pleasurable euphoria. However, meth is more potent, longer-lasting and potentially more harmful than amphetamines. And because it is so powerful and addictive, meth is highly regulated and controlled by the federal government. See, “United States Controlled Substances Act.” Meth can also be injected in a number of ways, including by way of snorting, swallowing, smoking, injection or inhalation, in gas form.
Joint control – the defendant was sharing control of the meth with at least one other individual.
Note: Under H&S 11378, a defendant does not need to be caught in the act of selling methamphetamine to be charged with that crime. Rather, the intent to sell may also be inferred by the evidence and facts of the case. For example, such evidence may include the presence of baggies (or other packaging materials), the amount of methamphetamine possessed (the greater the amount, the more likely that it is for sale and not use), the presence and amount of cash, a weighing scale, or other evidence that could suggest that the meth was intended for sale. If, however, the evidence suggests that you were in possession of meth for personal use, you are more likely to be charged with H&S §11377.
Illegal search. Under the United States Constitution, California Constitution and case law, a person is protected against unreasonable government searches and seizures. Among other vehicles, an illegal search may be confronted by filing a Motion to Suppress Evidence. See, California Penal Code 1538.5.
11378, Dara would have a potential defense.
Jenny was pulled over for a missing brake light. While questioning her, the Sheriff’s Deputy glanced over and sees a purse in the back seat, which seems out of place. A further search revealed that the suspicious purse contained a large quantity of a controlled substance. Jenny will be arrested and charged under H&S 11378.
attorney will likely file a §1538.5 Motion because the search warrant only pertained to Kate’s garage and not her bedroom. If successful, the motion will prevent the prosecution from using the 220 grams of methamphetamines against Kate, and their case will be severely weakened.
If you were in possession of the controlled substance either on the grounds or within 1,000 feet of a drug treatment center, homeless shelter, or detox facility.
Note: H&S §11378 is not affected by Proposition 47 and cannot be reduced to a misdemeanor.
There are no diversion or abuse programs for cases involving possession of narcotics for sale.
H&S §11378 is a very problematic conviction for anyone with immigration issues because, pursuant to federal law, H&S §11378 qualifies as a likely deportable offense. As such, severe immigration penalties are possible and likely. Please contact us for additional information or assistance.

References: §11378
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