With the growth of “backyard laboratories”, where methamphetamine is manufactured, the offence of Manufacture Prohibited Drug is becoming prominent in NSW.
The manufacture of prohibited drugs, and in particular methamphetamine, is considered a very serious offence in NSW, and can lead to sentences of lengthy terms of imprisonment.
Your options are
Plead not guilty
The prosecution must prove beyond reasonable doubt the following:
- That you manufactured or produced a prohibited drug
- Or who knowingly took part in the manufacture or production of, a prohibited drug.
Plead not guilty:
If you agree with what the police are alleging against you, the way to get the best result is often to plead guilty as it demonstrates remorse and contrition as well as meaning that you will be entitled to a discount on your sentence.
What is the penalty for manufacture prohibited drug?
The maximum penalty for manufacture prohibited drug falls into different categories, depending on the amount alleged to be manufactured.
The table below shows the maximum penalties:
| Quantity | Cocaine | Methylamphetamine | Ecstasy | Heroin | Maximum Penalty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 1 gm | 1 gm | 0.25 gms | 1 g | 2 years imprisonment and/or a fine of $5,500 (if dealt with summarily) |
| Indictable | 5 gms | 5 gms | 1.25 gms | 5 gms | 15 years imprisonment and/or a fine of $220,000 |
| Commercial | 250 gms | 250 gms | 125 gms | 250 gms | 20 years imprisonment and/or a fine of $385,000 |
| Large Commercial | 1 kg | 1 kg | 500 gms | 1 kg | Life imprisonment and / or a fine of $550,000 |
Generally, penalties that a court can impose for any criminal offence in NSW are:
