Marijuana Possession in Columbus, GA
Marijuana possession of one ounce or less is a misdemeanor that carries a one-year jail sentence and a maximum fine of $1,000. If you possess more than one ounce, you will be charged with a felony that carries a prison sentence of up to 10 years and a maximum fine of $5,000.
Intent to Sell, Deliver or Distribute
If you possess over a certain amount of marijuana, this could indicate that you intended to sell, deliver or distribute the drug, which is a felony. If convicted, the penalties will be assessed based on the amount of marijuana you possessed:
10 pounds or less
One to 10 years in prison, $5,000 maximum fine
10 to 2,000 pounds
Five to 30 years in prison, $100,000 maximum fine
2,000 to 10,000 pounds
Seven to 30 years in prison, $250,000 maximum fine
More than 10,000 pounds
15 to 30 years in prison, $1,000,000 maximum fine
The penalties and amounts are the same for the offense of manufacture or cultivation.
Enhanced Sentencing
Marijuana possession with intent to distribute, sell or deliver within 1,000 feet of a school, housing project, drug-free zone, or park is an additional felony offense. If convicted, you could face up to 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $40,000.
