Tristen Lee Godsey

It is illegal to knowingly possess a controlled substance or casually exchange a small amount without a valid prescription from a doctor. This is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and a fine up to $2,500, but it can be enhanced to a Class E felony for certain circumstances (such as being near a school or involving minors).

Penalty: Class A misdemeanor; 11 months 29 days; fine up to $2,500

It is illegal to knowingly use, possess, deliver, or manufacture drug paraphernalia (equipment used to consume, produce, or test drugs, such as pipes, syringes, or meth labs). This is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and a fine up to $2,500, but it can be enhanced to a Class E felony depending on circumstances.

Penalty: Class A misdemeanor; 11 months 29 days; fine up to $2,500

It is illegal to use physical force against a police officer to prevent them from stopping, searching, or arresting you or another person. This includes resisting or obstructing a lawful police action through violence. A basic violation is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a $500 fine, but if you use a deadly weapon (firearm or similar object) during the resistance, it becomes a Class A misdemeanor with harsher penalties.

Penalty: Class B misdemeanor; 6 months; fine up to $500

It is illegal to alter, destroy, hide, or create fake records, documents, or physical evidence when you know an investigation or court proceeding is happening, if you intend to affect the evidence or the outcome of the case. A conviction is a Class C felony punishable by 3-15 years in jail and up to $10,000 in fines.

Penalty: Class C felony; 3-15 years; fine up to $10,000