What is the difference between Crack Cocaine vs Powder Cocaine?

Crack is a freebase form of cocaine that’s street value is cheaper than powder cocaine.”Cocaine base” means an alkaloidal cocaine or freebase form of cocaine, which is the end product of a chemical alteration whereby the cocaine in salt form is converted to a form suitable for smoking. Cocaine base is commonly referred to as “rock” or “crack cocaine”.

Misdemeanor Crack Possession

First Offense possession of less than one gram of cocaine is considered a misdemeanor.

Penalty:  you may be subject to a fine of no more than $5,000 (plus court costs and assessments) and/or imprisonment of no more than three years.

Felony Crack Possession

Second and subsequent offenses for possession of less than one gram of cocaine are considered felonies.

• Penalty for second offense:  you may be subject to a fine of no more than $7,500 (plus court costs and assessments) and/or imprisonment of no more than five years.
• Penalty for third and subsequent offenses:  you may be subject to a fine of no more than $12,500 (plus court costs and assessments) and/or imprisonment of no more than ten years.

Crack Cocaine Distribution Charges

In South Carolina, if you are in possession of one or more grams of methamphetamine or cocaine base (“crack”), you will be charged with distribution of crack rather than possession, which carries much stiffer penalties.

Crack Cocaine Distribution Penalties

• Penalty for first offense: you may be subject to a fine of no more than $25,000 (plus court costs and assessments) and/or imprisonment of up to 15 years

In South Carolina, if you have been convicted previously of one or more drug offenses, you may be considered a second time offender, even if the offense was not the same as the one you were previously convicted for.

• Penalty for second offense: (this includes previous conviction for any other charge of drug possession): you may be subject to a fine of no more than $50,000 (plus court costs and assessments) and/or imprisonment of up 5 to 30 years.
• Penalty for third or subsequent offense (this includes pervious convictions for any other charge of drug possession): you are subject to a fine of no more than $50,000 (plus court costs and assessments) and/or imprisonment of 10 to 30 years.

If you have been charged with distribution of crack cocaine, or any other drug crime, it is important that you contact a South Carolina Drug Crimes Attorney. If crack distribution occurs across state lines, you may face federal charges in addition to drug charges in South Carolina. Contacting a drug crimes attorney at the Strom Law Firm, LLC can help you secure a more beneficial outcome. Don’t wait until the verdict is in. Call the Strom Law Firm today for a free consultation. 803.252.4800.