The the use of syringes for insulin injections is declining in favor of other methods of delivery, but those who have a prescription from a pharmacist for insulin are unlikely to face charges for possessing a syringe. For those using one for a different purpose, the laws can get a little tricky.
With the lack of a federal law, it comes down to each state to decide about the legality of syringes and how law enforcement officers will treat the discovery of one in a person’s possession. As you might expect, it’s complicated.
Some states have syringe service programs (SSPs) to help those battling drug abuse. They’re also known as needle exchange programs or syringe exchange programs, although the services available often go far beyond replacing used syringes with new, sterile syringes. The Federal Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2016 allows states to receive funding for SSPs as part of health care.
In other states, SSPs are not permitted. Having a syringe without proper syringe access may be a crime if the state lists it under possession of drug paraphernalia and considers it illegal. While most charges for illegal possession of a syringe are misdemeanors, that’s not always the case.
Some states will factor in the residue from any controlled substances remaining in the syringe when it’s discovered. In states with strict drug possession penalties, the possibility of facing a felony charge for having a hypodermic syringe with traces of fentanyl or other illegal drugs is very much on the table.
The use of hypodermic syringes is common for people with substance abuse issues involving heroin, fentanyl, and several other drugs. With harm reduction available through public health programs in many states, the opportunity to mitigate health risks, such as the spreading of infectious diseases, is possible.
If you or a loved one is in a bind as a result of criminal allegations, immediately contact a Seattle Criminal Attorney. A Criminal lawyer is not going to judge you and understands that everyone makes mistakes. Hiring a Seattle Criminal Lawyer to help can – at a minimum – reduce penalties and can help direct people on how to best deal with their criminal charge, and many times even get them dismissed. So, it should go without saying that someone cited for a misdemeanor or felony should hire a qualified Seattle Criminal Lawyer as soon as possible. Criminal charges can cause havoc on a person’s personal and professional life. Anyone charged with a crime in Washington State should immediately seek the assistance of a seasoned Seattle Criminal Lawyer. SQ Attorneys can be reached at (425) 359-3791 and/or (206) 441-0900.
