Erica Renee Branch

It is illegal to knowingly bring weapons, ammunition, explosives, drugs, alcohol, or cell phones into a prison or jail, or to possess these items while in a correctional facility. This applies to any person bringing contraband into an institution or to anyone (including staff) possessing prohibited items inside. The base violation is a Class E felony (1-6 years, up to $3,000 fine), but charges can be enhanced to Class D or Class C felony depending on the specific item and circumstances.

Penalty: Class E felony; 1-6 years; fine up to $3,000

It is illegal to manufacture, deliver, sell, or possess methamphetamine with intent to manufacture, deliver, or sell it, or to knowingly possess or casually exchange any amount of methamphetamine. Simple possession or casual exchange of methamphetamine is punished less severely than possession with intent to sell. Penalties depend on whether the charge involves intent to distribute (more severe) or simple possession (less severe), with specific jail time and fines determined by related statutes TCA 39-17-417 and 39-17-418.

Penalty: Violation

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

Driving under the influence prohibited – Alcohol concentration in blood or breath.

Penalty: Classification not specified

Breath and blood tests to determine alcohol or drug content of a motor vehicle operator’s blood — Violation.

Penalty: Violation