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Use or Possession of the Drug Molly in NJ

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What is Molly?

“Molly” is a street name given to a form of the drug known as “Ecstasy” that suggests a greater degree of purity than can be found in other forms.  The formal name of Ecstasy is MDMA (3,4-methylenedioly-N-methylamphetamine).  MDMA was popular during the 1990's in pill form, known as “Ecstasy” or “X.”  Molly gained headline status in late summer 2013 when two attendees of a concert on Randalls Island in New York City were alleged to have died as a result of complications from use of the drug.

Is Use of Molly Legal in the U.S.?

Until May 1985, Ecstasy was legal and unregulated in the United States.  Thereafter, the Controlled Substances Act deemed Molly a Schedule I drug.  That means it has great potential for abuse, is not currently accepted for medical treatment in the U.S. and lacks accepted safety protocols that normally exist under medical supervision.
Ecstasy is illegal in New Jersey.  Along with the resurgence of Molly's popularity, there has also been an increase in prosecution for possession of the drug.  And with the ease of availability of Ecstasy or Molly, it is just as easy to be arrested for having the drug, even for the possession of a small amount.

Distinguishing Features of Molly

Molly is unique in that it is rarely consumed alone.  A synthetic chemical made in labs and distributed in tablet form, Molly is considered a “party drug” and is popular among attendees at dance parties (typically known as “raves”) featuring electronic dance music (EDM).  Because Ecstasy is produced secretly, its purity can't be vouched for.
The criminal nature of Ecstasy's producers renders the product susceptible to dilution.  A typical Ecstasy tablet is rarely 100 percent pure and is usually combined with other chemicals not known to the consumer.  This is well accepted among the community that uses Ecstasy and is why a product touting greater purity – that is, Molly – has reached its current degree of popularity.

Side Effects of Using Molly (MDMA)

Molly can be inhaled (snorted), taken orally, or “parachuted.”  The high generally lasts two to three hours, with the peak achieved at about 75-120 minutes after taking the drug and a comedown period of about three hours.  Among the most widely reported side effects associated with Molly are confusion, anxiety, depression, paranoia, irritability, decreased concentration, dizziness, jaw clenching and grinding of the teeth during sleep.  An overdose of Molly can turn fatal.  The drug poses its biggest threat to the body's ability to regulate temperature.  MDMA is also linked to the aggravation of preexisting cardiovascular problems.

Penalties for Possession of Molly or MDMA Use in NJ

Possession of Molly in New Jersey is an indictable offense (also known as a felony in other jurisdictions) under New Jersey's drug possession law (N.J.S.A. 2C:35-10).  Penalties vary based on the amount of the drug found in the person's possession at the time of arrest, and whether the intent was merely to consume the drug or to distribute.  As with other drug offenses, a conviction for possession of Molly in New Jersey can result in the suspension of your driver's license and termination of your job.  See our information on school employment disqualification if you work in the New Jersey school system.
Mere possession with no intent to distribute to others is often a third degree offense, susceptible to as many as five years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $75,000 and assorted other penalties imposed by the judge hearing the case.  If you are found with more than half an ounce of Ecstasy in New Jersey, you can be charged with a second or even first degree drug offense.  Should the prosecution prove that there was intent to distribute by the defendant, this drug offense could be raised to the first degree and the penalties would be more severe if convicted.
An individual who has ingested Molly and exhibits behavior that attracts the attention of law enforcement runs the risk of being arrested on a disorderly persons offense (commonly referred to as a misdemeanor).  The penalties for being under the influence of a drug like Molly are not as severe as those for possession, although they are wide ranging and depend on the discretion of the judge.

Possession of Ecstasy (Molly) on School Property

In addition to any sentences imposed by the court, any person caught with a Schedule 1 narcotic, such as Molly, on any type of school property, including school buses, is required to perform up to 100 hours of community service.

Defend Your Ecstasy Charge with a NJ Drug Crime Lawyer

If you have been arrested and charged with the use or possession of a drug like Ecstasy or Molly, you need legal help immediately!  Drug crimes are serious and can result in a variety of penalties if you are convicted.  The criminal defense attorneys at Villani & DeLuca offer free consultations to everyone looking for legal help in New Jersey.  Call (732) 709-7757 today to speak to one of our drug crime lawyers.

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