by Attorney Eric D. PuryearIowa code section 124.414 bans the possession of drug paraphernalia, which is defined as all equipment, products, or materials of any kind used or attempted to be used in combination with a controlled substance, except those items used in combination with the lawful use of a controlled substance, to knowingly or intentionally and primarily do any of the following:
(1) Manufacture a controlled substance.
(2) Inject, ingest, inhale, or otherwise introduce into the human body a controlled substance.
(3) Test the strength, effectiveness, or purity of a controlled substance.
(4) Enhance the effect of a controlled substance.
Possession of drug paraphernalia is a simple misdemeanor in Iowa, which means that the maximum penalty is 30 days in the county jail.
A drug paraphernalia conviction in Iowa can cause problems with employment, as many employers see such a conviction as evidence that the prospective employee will not be a reliable employee. For that reason, along with the possible jail time, a drug paraphernalia charge in Iowa is one that should be handled carefully.