Drug Classifications and Maximum Sentences
Class A drugs — including heroin, cocaine, crack cocaine, MDMA, LSD, and methamphetamine — carry a maximum of seven years for possession and life imprisonment for supply or production. Class B drugs — including cannabis, amphetamine, ketamine, and synthetic cannabinoids — carry up to five years for possession and 14 years for supply or production. Class C drugs — including anabolic steroids, some benzodiazepines, and GHB/GBL — carry up to two years for possession and 14 years for supply or production.
| Class | Examples | Max — Possession | Max — Supply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class A | Heroin, cocaine, MDMA, LSD | 7 years | Life |
| Class B | Cannabis, amphetamine, ketamine | 5 years | 14 years |
| Class C | Anabolic steroids, GHB/GBL | 2 years | 14 years |
Possession with Intent to Supply
Possession with intent to supply (PWITS) carries the same maximum sentence as supply itself and is significantly more serious than simple possession. The prosecution does not need to prove that any supply actually took place — only that the defendant possessed the drug with the intention of supplying it to another person. Intent to supply can be inferred from the quantity of drugs found, the way in which they are packaged, the presence of weighing scales or cash, multiple mobile phones, and messages on a device indicating dealing activity. Even a relatively small quantity may attract a PWITS charge if the surrounding circumstances point to supply rather than personal use.
Being Concerned in Supply
The offence of being concerned in the supply of drugs extends liability to those who play a supporting role without necessarily being in physical possession of the drugs. Examples include driving a dealer to a location knowing they are supplying, passing on messages between suppliers and buyers, or acting as an intermediary. This offence is frequently charged in operations involving multiple individuals with distinct roles.
Sentencing
Sentences are determined by the Sentencing Council's Drug Offences Definitive Guideline. The court first assesses harm — by the quantity of drugs involved and the likely scale of the operation — and then considers culpability, categorised as a leading, significant, or lesser role. Personal mitigation, a guilty plea, and any exploitation or coercion are also relevant. The distinction between a leading and lesser role can make a very significant difference to the sentence imposed.
What to Do if You Are Arrested or Under Investigation
If you are arrested or under investigation for a drug offence, do not answer police questions without a solicitor present. Drug investigations frequently rely on inference, and what is said during interview can significantly affect whether and how you are charged. Early legal intervention — including representations to the CPS before a charging decision — can in some cases prevent a prosecution from being brought.