December 17, 2019
There is no denying the popularity of vaping products in recent years. But what is more alarming, is the rise in El Paso teenagers using these products to ingest THC oil. Not only does this pose a significant health risk, but your child can face a felony charge if they vape and/or possess THC oil.
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) oil is made from the marijuana (cannabis) plant and usually appears as a thick and sticky oil with a golden or brown color. A vaping device is used to heat the THC oil into a vapor which is inhaled by the user. Many vaping devices are small and can be easily mistaken for common household items such as a pen or USB device.
According to a news release by the Paso del Norte Health Foundation in partnership with the El Paso Behavioral Health Consortium, “In 2017, the County of El Paso Juvenile Probation Department reported 16 cases of juveniles between the ages of 10 and 16 caught in possession of THC. That number increased in 2018 to an alarming forty (40) cases. As of December 3, 2019, the Juvenile Probation Department reports a frightening two hundred forty-eight (248) cases for the 2019 calendar year!”
If you are caught with THC oil and are OVER 17 years of age, it’s possible you may face:
If you are caught with THC oil and you are UNDER 17 years of age, it’s possible you may face:
It’s important for both parents and children to be aware of the risks involved in this situation. Vaping THC not only affects your physical health, but the legal consequences if caught for possession of THC can affect future employment, residency status, college acceptance, scholarship applications, military recruitment and Section 8 Housing eligibility.
If your child is facing a felony charge for THC possession or any type of related offense, it’s important to reach out to an experienced juvenile criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. In many cases, we have been able to seal a juvenile’s record so that he or she can have the best chance at a successful future. Call us at (915) 225-1555 to schedule your free consultation.
Posted by CLM Law Firm
Photo Credit: Thomas Stephan on Unsplash