International Student in US Arrested for Possession of Marijuana, Paraphernalia and Prescription Drug?
Question by The .EXEcutioner: International student in US arrested for Possession of marijuana, paraphernalia and prescription drug?
I’m an international student on an f-1 visa in the state of new jersey charged with marijuana, paraphanelia and prescription drug. I was caught in my dorm on campus with less than 1g of marijuana, a small metal piece for a bong plus some empty used bags that hold weed and one pill of concerta (alza 36 which is a prescription drug for ADHD..i had this pill because it helps in studying for exams..i dont think it can be abused)
My court date is next week and im scared as sh—-tt! i dont know whats going to happen and what the judge is going to say.
Also, if it helps..when i was arrested i helped the cops out by letting them know who all sells weed on campus and where they live. I thought this would count as cooperation and help my case a little bit…maybe, yay nay?
I have hired a lawyer and they say most liekly i will get a year probation, $ 1000 fine and then the record can be expunged. The thing i’m really worried about is my immigration status…will I be kicked out of the country? or never be let into the US ever? Would I be allowed to travel out of the US and come back without a problem? Would i have any problems in applying for a job or a green card later on??????
Please respond
THANK YOU
the decision will happen at the municipal court in Newark…i dont know if it helps but newark court and the town itslef are super notorious…any chance it can be dismissed?
Best answer:
Answer by jaker
If you are convicted of a crime your visa should be revoked. Why should we tolerate people who are given the privilege of being students here breaking the law?
Answer by Mutt
Listen to your lawyer. That’s what you pay him for.
These are not all that serious offenses. It was very small amounts. Just stay off the drugs (even if they help you study). Now that you have a record, they might not be so forgiving in the future.
So, you are a hot shot foreigner, here on the good graces of the American people, you decide to flaunt the law, stupidly, and NOW you are scared as . . . .
And don’t give us that old “Hey it is medicine for my problem, man.” We all know that is bogus.
Grass is illegal on the Federal level and you knew it.
As for what you think will happen. Your immigration status will be flagged.
You may not get deported, be thankful Obama is in office, but it will show up on any future application you post.
In general, the crimes that will result in the revocation of your Visa, or your later inadmissibility, are those classified as “Crimes of moral turpitude”.
Simple possession drug charges are not crimes of moral turpitude – although all ‘distribution’ offenses are.
That said, while it “appears” that you are ok, immigration wise, please consult an immigration lawyer familiar with the latest rulings. Most criminal defense lawyers are NOT familiar with the immigration consequences of even plea bargains or diversions.
Richard