Federal Sanctions

The following are Federal penalties and sanctions for Illegal Possession of a Controlled Substance. Additional penalties are imposed for trafficking.

21 U.S.C. 844(a). First conviction: Up to one year imprisonment and fined at least $1,000 but not more than $100,000, or both.

After one prior drug conviction: At least 15 days in prison, not to exceed two years and fined at least $2,500 but not more than $250,000, or both.

After two or more prior drug convictions: At least 90 days in prison, not to exceed three years and fined at least $5,000 but not more than $250,000, or both.

Special sentencing provisions for possession of crack cocaine: Mandatory at least five years in prison, not to exceed 20 years and fined up to $250,000, or both, if:

  1. 1st conviction and the amount of crack possessed exceeds five grams.
  2. 2nd crack conviction and the amount of crack possessed exceeds three grams.
  3. 3rd or subsequent crack conviction and the amount of crack possessed exceeds one gram.


21 U.S.C. 853(a)(2) and 881(a)(7)
. Forfeiture of personal real property used to possess or to facilitate possession of a controlled substance if that offense is punishable by more than one year imprisonment. (See special sentencing provisions re: crack.)

21 U.S.C. 881(c)(4). Forfeiture of vehicles, boats, aircraft or any other conveyance used to transport or conceal a controlled substance.

21 U.S.C. 844a. Civil fine of up to $10,000 (pending adoption of final regulations).

21 U.S.C. 853a. Denial of Federal benefits, such as student loans, grants, contracts, and professional and commercial licenses, up to one year for first offense, up to five years for second and subsequent offenses.

18 U.S.C. 922(g)
. Ineligible to receive or purchase a firearm.

Miscellaneous. Revocation of certain Federal licenses and benefits, e.g., pilot licenses, public housing tenancy, etc., are vested within the authorities of individual Federal agencies.

Oregon State University complies with the United States Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Act, the United States Drug-Free Workplace Act, Oregon Revised Statues 352.008, and OSSHE Administrative Rule 580-19-001. Annual distribution of drug-free campus and workplace information to employees and students is required by law.