quote:
Originally posted by whomod:
the criminal justice system doesn't make the distinction between a dealer and an addict. Both do the time
Actually, most drug offenses are characterized as either possession or sales offenses (ie, Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance vs Criminal Sale of a Controlled Substance).

The "sale" offenses tend to be more serious charges (eg, felonies vs misdemeanors) and, therefore, a convicted defendant is more likely to do jail time if convicted of a sale than if he or she is convicted of possessing drugs.

Furthermore, a number of states, including New York and Florida have "drug courts." These are courts where the defendant is sentenced to treatment, not jail time. As a general rule, they are for addicts, not dealers.

As such, your statement is inaccurate--the criminal justice system does make the distinction between a dealer and a user.