Seven Pounds of Marijuana Allegedly Found in Georgia Felon’s Home

A Georgia man, Tyrone Carruth, was arrested yesterday on charges of felony possession of marijuana and three counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in Monroe County.

Police obtained a warrant after an anonymous tip and searched his home early Friday morning. That is when they discovered seven pounds of marijuana and multiple guns. Carruth has past drug possession and distribution charges and has served over 3 years of prison time so far.

As a Georgia Criminal Defense Lawyer, it's always important for me to point out that even though someone may have past convictions for a certain crime that does not mean they are automatically guilty of the same or a similar crime.

Offenses that fall into the category of Drug Crimes in Georgia tend to carry a certain stigma, and people automatically assume guilt more often than not. In today's post I will focus on the offense of possession of marijuana in Georgia.

Possession of Marijuana in Georgia

The Georgia Controlled Substances Act regulates all drugs – both illicit street drugs and pharmaceutical drugs. Most drugs are listed through different schedules within the act according to level of danger. However, marijuana is not considered a scheduled substance.
The Georgia Code defines crimes involving marijuana in O.C.G.A. §16-13-1(j) as:

It is unlawful for any person to possess, have under his or her control, manufacture, deliver, distribute, dispense, administer, purchase, sell, or possess with intent to distribute marijuana.

Other marijuana-related crimes include:

• Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute in Georgia
• Sale of Marijuana in Georgia
• Manufacturing Marijuana in Georgia
• Trafficking Marijuana in Georgia

Practice Note

Marijuana possession can be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony. Either way – you are looking at some serious consequences if arrested for this offense and will need the help of a Georgia Criminal Defense Lawyer.

If arrested for possession of under one ounce of marijuana, the offense is classified as a misdemeanor. The penalty can include up to $1,000 in fines and a jail sentence of up to 12 months.

If arrested for possession of one ounce up to ten pounds of marijuana, the offense is classified as a felony. The penalty can include fines and a prison sentence up to 10 years.

If you or a loved one has been arrested for committing a crime in Georgia, contact our offices today.