Cocaine - The Law

The Law

Under the U.S. Controlled Substance Act of 1970, cocaine is a Schedule II drug. This means that cocaine has a high potential for abuse and that abuse may lead to severe physical and psychological dependence. It also means that cocaine has accepted medical uses with severe restrictions. The only legal use of cocaine in the United States is as a local anesthetic.

The Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986 and 1988 established mandatory minimum drug sentencing guidelines for cocaine use and possession. Federal law carries a much harsher penalty for crack cocaine than for powder cocaine. Because more African Americans tend to use crack than powder, this law continues to result in harsher prison terms for blacks. Possession of 5 grams of crack or 500 grams of powder carries a first-offense penalty of not less than five years in prison. Despite the severity of this penalty, according to Landau, about "85 percent of those imprisoned for drug abuse" will continue to "use cocaine or other drugs after leaving prison."

In the United Kingdom, cocaine and crack are considered Class A drugs under the 1971 Misuse of Drugs Act. Possession of the drugs can result in a fine and a prison term of up to seven years. Supplying, or selling, either form of cocaine can lead to a lifetime prison sentence.