While you may know which drugs are legal and which are illegal to possess, you may not have realized that you can also be arrested just for having drugs in the wrong location. The attempts to keep students free from the influence of certain drugs have resulted in a ban against anyone even bringing them near a school or places where children are likely to spend time. If you have been charged with possessing drugs near one of these locations in Tennessee, we can help you fight for your rights.
According to The Sentencing Project, Tennessee law prohibits you from bringing drugs within 1,000 ft. of any schools or child care centers. The restriction is also expanded to include parks, libraries, and recreation centers. While some states prohibit the mere possession of any drugs near these institutions and law enforcement officers may cite you for this, Tennesee regulations actually state that you can only be cited for possession with intent, sale, manufacture or delivery of these drugs.
The penalties for violating this law can be severe. In addition to any other charges that you may face in connection with the drugs or your activity with them, proximity to one of the above-mentioned locations can result in the felony level of your existing charges being raised by one.
While every state has laws outlawing drugs near schools, seeking local help is crucial in knowing how to fight the charges in Tennessee. This information is intended for your education and should not be taken as legal advice.