The state of Illinois has strict laws to curb drug-related activities. The penalties for these offenses are more severe when they occur near a school. The Illinois Controlled Substances Act addresses this issue as it pertains to protecting children in educational environments. Those who are convicted of possession with intent to deliver or distribute near a school will face enhanced penalties.
In simple terms, “intent to distribute” means a person intended to sell a controlled substance. Intent to distribute is usually differentiated from possession by the amount of illegal drugs a person is in possession of. If the amount is more than the person could consume on his or her own, intent to distribute could be charged. The presence of drug paraphernalia like baggies, scales, or ledgers can increase the chances of being charged with intent to distribute.
Enhanced penalties are likely if the person arrested is within 1,000 feet of a school. This includes every level of private and public schools as well as selling drugs close to school buses. If you are facing charges of intent to distribute drugs and the offense occurred near a school, you are facing serious penalties. A Naperville, IL, criminal defense attorney can build a comprehensive defense on your behalf while ensuring your rights are protected.