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Pseudoephedrine Charges in St. Louis and Across Missouri: Know The Facts
Pseudoephedrine, a chemical component in many over-the-counter medications like nasal decongestants, has a molecular structure closely resembling that of amphetamines. This similarity makes it a preferred ingredient for producing methamphetamine. Pseudoephedrine is readily available at major pharmacies and other retailers, and is one of the essential ingredients in “cooking” meth. Due to this, Missouri, like numerous other states, has imposed regulations on purchasing medications containing pseudoephedrine.
If you’ve been arrested for pseudoephedrine possession or for attempting to sell it, you could be facing serious penalties. You need a skilled and knowledgeable Missouri criminal defense attorney on your side. The Combs Waterkotte legal team has over 40 years of experience and has successfully handled more than 10,000 cases just like yours.
Don't gamble on your future. Call a Combs Waterkotte pseudoephedrine charges lawyer right away at (314) 900-HELP or reach out online for a confidential, no-obligation consultation.
What is Considered a Pseudoephedrine Charge in St. Louis or Elsewhere in Missouri?
According to Missouri Revised Statute § 195.417, pharmacies and retailers cannot sell any one individual:
- More than 9 grams of any products containing pseudoephedrine within a 30-day period
- More than 3.6 grams of any products containing pseudoephedrine within 24 hours
Stores must also keep detailed logs, records, and receipts for all transactions involving pseudoephedrine. Although this level of regulation may seem excessive for common cold medications, law enforcement is stringent due to the risks associated with meth production. Consequently, anyone possessing pseudoephedrine above this legal threshold, or retailers not adhering to the law, may face class A misdemeanor charges, punishable by fines and up to 1 year in prison. Enhanced charges and more severe penalties might also apply if there are aggravating factors, such as prior convictions or possession of larger quantities.
Defense Strategies for Pseudoephedrine Charges in St. Louis, MO
Some of the defense strategies the Combs Waterkotte pseudoephedrine defense attorneys have used to successfully defend clients in drug cases in St. Louis and across Missouri include:
- Intent to Manufacture Meth: In cases where the charge involves intent to manufacture, the prosecution must prove that you knowingly intended to use pseudoephedrine for illegal meth production. This is not always straightforward, particularly if you had legitimate medical reasons for purchasing pseudoephedrine. By gathering evidence that the substance was obtained legally and with lawful intent, a Combs Waterkotte defense attorney can work to counter accusations of intent to manufacture.
- Challenging Search and Seizure Procedures: Our defense often begins with a close examination of how law enforcement obtained evidence. Missouri law mandates that searches must follow strict Fourth Amendment protocols, meaning that any illegal or improperly conducted search can be challenged. If police found pseudoephedrine through an unlawful search, the evidence may be suppressed, which can significantly weaken the case.
- Exploring Plea Options: In scenarios where evidence strongly favors the prosecution, a negotiated plea might sometimes be beneficial. This approach can potentially lead to reduced charges or lesser sentencing. Our firm’s experience in handling drug-related cases in Missouri allows us to negotiate effectively with prosecutors to seek the best outcome possible.
