Penal Code 381: Possession of Nitrous Oxide

Legal Definition: PC 381b: Any person who possesses nitrous oxide or any substance containing nitrous oxide, with the intent to breathe, inhale, or ingest for the purpose of causing a condition of intoxication, elation, euphoria, dizziness, stupefaction, or dulling of the senses or for the purpose of, in any manner, changing, distorting, or disturbing the audio, visual, or mental processes, or who knowingly and with the intent to do so is under the influence of nitrous oxide or any material containing nitrous oxide is guilty…

To be found guilty under PC 381b the prosecution must prove that:

1. You possessed nitrous oxide or any substance containing nitrous oxide;

AND

2. You HAD intended to breathe, inhale, or ingest the nitrous oxide for the purpose of causing intoxication, elation, euphoria, dizziness, stupefaction, or dulling of the senses, or you did so for the purpose of changing, distorting, or disturbing your audio, visual or mental processes.

What does this mean?

This section does not apply to any person who is under the influence of nitrous oxide or any material containing nitrous oxide pursuant to an administrator for the purpose of medical, surgical, or dental care by a person duly licensed to administer such an agent. Nitrous oxide is what is commonly referred to as “laughing gas”, something any person who has had dental work or surgery, has likely had induced, in order to numb themselves for the purposes of treatment. As is clear, use in a medical environment could not be a crime as its purpose is to assist in an operation. The crimes occur when a person removes that gas to use for their own purposes, not for medical treatment. This would not preclude you from also being charged with additional offenses if you were to steal or remove the gas from an office, such as during a Burglary.

This differs from a violation under HS 11350, because possession along of nitrous oxide is not a crime, by itself. It has the added requirement here that you possessed that gas for the purposes of using it as a recreational drug. Even if in an example police were to find you, without the nitrous oxide on your person, you can still be charged here. If, for example, you are found under the influence of nitrous oxide, that you had taken it in intentionally, and you did so without being administered it or by the direction of a medical professional.

Penalties

A charge under PC 381b is a misdemeanor offense. If you are convicted of this charge you could be sentenced to upwards of six months in County Jail. You would be required to serve at least 50% of that time in custody. You could also be subject to a fine of up to $1000 for this charge. Even if you have lawfully purchased the nitrous oxide, you would also have it seized by police, and they would never return it.

This is not a strike offense under the California Three Strikes law, and it is not a Sex Offense under PC 290. You could also face a loss of your Professional License if convicted, and if you are not a legal resident, you would face Deportation in Immigration Courtsince the offense is deportable, in that it is a crime involving drug use.

Common Defenses

1. Statute of Limitations
2. Violation of Rights
3. Insufficient Evidence

There are numerous defenses available to you if you are charged under this section. The biggest defense is attacking the second required element above, by proving you lack intent to use the nitrous oxide as a recreational drug. If the DA is unable to prove your intent, then you would be able to argue that there is insufficient evidence to prove you guilty of the crime. Imagine a scenario where you work for a dentist, and you are tasked with transporting the nitrous oxide from a manufacturer to the office. If police stop you and find the nitrous oxide, that would not be sufficient to prove you guilty of the crime. If you have a legitimate reason to transport the nitrous oxide, and it isn’t for you to use for recreational purposes, then there would be insufficient to prove your guilt.

Another defense could be if the police violate your rights. For example, police officers may have violated search and seizure laws by searching your home without a valid search warrant. In that case, you can argue that the evidence seized is illegal, and your case should be dismissed. Contact an experienced Criminal Defense Attorney well versed in this type of law, in order to best assist possibly getting your case thrown out of Court.

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The impact of a criminal record extends far beyond the immediate consequences of a conviction, affecting virtually every aspect of a person’s life, including their future career prospects. The requirement to disclose criminal convictions to potential employers can severely undermine professional opportunities, making it essential to fight such charges with the help of an experienced legal advocate.

At Inland Empire Defense, our Ontario PC 381b attorney specializes in defending individuals charged with the possession of nitrous oxide under PC 381b. With a robust track record of successfully defending hundreds of clients against these charges, we bring a wealth of knowledge and strategic insight to your case, aiming to protect your future and minimize the impact of these allegations on your life.

Why Inland Empire Defense for PC 381b Charges?

• Specialized Expertise in Nitrous Oxide Possession Defense: Our attorney’s focused experience with PC 381b charges ensures that your defense benefits from a deep understanding of the law and a strategic approach to mitigating these specific allegations.
• Proven Success in Defending Against Possession Charges: Our firm’s history of successfully defending clients against possession of nitrous oxide charges demonstrates our capability to navigate these cases effectively and achieve favorable outcomes.
• Commitment to Protecting Your Future: We understand the far-reaching implications of a criminal record, and we’re committed to offering vigorous legal representation, tailored to safeguard your career prospects and personal future.

Start Building Your Defense with Inland Empire Defense

Facing charges for possession of nitrous oxide under PC 381b requires immediate, informed, and strategic legal action. Inland Empire Defense, located in Ontario, is equipped to provide the experienced and specialized legal support necessary to effectively challenge these allegations.

Contact Inland Empire Defense Today

If you’re dealing with charges of nitrous oxide possession under PC 381b, don’t leave your future to chance. Contact Inland Empire Defense at 909-939-7126 to secure a defense team that combines specialized legal expertise with a proven track record of success. Located in Ontario, we are your dedicated resource for robust legal defense and advocacy, committed to protecting your rights and your future.