What Are Narcotic Drugs?

Narcotic Drugs are defined by Arizona statute as substances “whether of natural or synthetic origin and any substance neither chemically nor physically distinguishable from them.” Arizona law provides a comprehensive list of these substances in A.R.S. § 13-3401 (Definitions), which includes nearly 100 specific drugs and compounds.

Among these substances, Opium and its derivatives are prominent. The most common narcotic drugs involved in criminal charges include:

  • Codeine

  • Heroin

  • Hydrocodone

  • Morphine

  • Oxycodone

These drugs are either naturally derived from the opium poppy or synthetically produced to mimic their effects.

How Are Narcotic Drug Charges Filed?

Charges involving narcotic drugs typically fall under one or more of the following categories:

  • Possession

  • Sale or distribution

  • Transportation

  • Manufacturing or production

Possession charges require that the defendant knowingly possess the narcotic drug. This does not mean the drug must be physically on the person (e.g., in their hand or pocket). Arizona law extends possession to any location where the person knew or should have known the narcotic drugs were present—this can include a car, home, garage, locker, backpack, or other areas under their control.

How Do Police Detect Narcotic Drug Use or Possession?

Arizona law enforcement is proactive in cracking down on drug offenses, especially in counties like Maricopa and Yavapai, known for strict enforcement.

During traffic stops or other encounters, officers often ask, “Any weapons, drugs, or explosives in the car?” An affirmative answer gives probable cause to search the vehicle.

Police also look for signs of drug impairment, which vary depending on the drug category:

  • Central Nervous System (CNS) Stimulants: These drugs speed up brain and body functions. Examples include methamphetamine (classified as a dangerous drug), Adderall, and prescription medications for ADHD, narcolepsy, and certain types of depression. Officers watch for signs like rapid speech, facial tics, dry mouth, mood swings, and tremors.

  • Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants: These slow down brain activity and bodily functions. Alcohol is the most common CNS depressant. Prescription CNS depressants include Valium, Klonopin, Xanax, Ambien, and Lunesta. Heroin is an illegal CNS depressant. Signs officers look for include slurred speech, drowsiness, poor coordination, slow breathing, and dry mouth.

If officers observe these signs, they become more suspicious and may ask for consent to search or seek warrants to search your vehicle or residence.

What Penalties Do You Face if Found With Narcotic Drugs?

Narcotic drug possession is a Class 4 felony under Arizona law.

Arizona’s Proposition 200 (A.R.S. § 13-901.01) provides protections and mandatory probation for first-time narcotic drug offenders. On a first or second offense, a person is generally placed on probation and must complete drug treatment and regular drug testing (urine screens).

However, for repeat offenders—especially those with two or more prior felony convictions (Category Three repetitive offender status)—mandatory prison sentencing applies:

  • For a Class 4 felony possession charge, Category Three offenders face a minimum of 6 years and up to 15 years in prison.
  • If prior convictions are older or include misdemeanors, prison sentences can range from about 2.25 years to 7.5 years, with a presumptive sentence around 4.5 years.

Examples of Narcotic Drug Possession Cases

  • Individuals found with heroin (the most common narcotic involved)

  • Persons carrying pills classified as narcotic drugs, either loose or in baggies

  • Possession of pill bottles that belong to others containing narcotic drugs

How Can You Defend a Narcotic Drug Possession Charge?

Defense strategies depend on case specifics, but common considerations include:

  • Was the search lawful? (consent, warrant, probable cause, or involving a drug-sniffing dog)

  • If pills were found, does the person have a valid prescription? Carrying prescribed narcotic medications legally prescribed to you is a strong defense and usually leads to case dismissal.

  • If the pills were in someone else’s bottle, the context matters—if found in a vehicle owned by the prescription holder, prosecutors often do not pursue charges.

The Opioid Epidemic in Arizona and the U.S.

Opioid addiction is a major crisis nationwide, including Arizona. The epidemic often begins with legally prescribed painkillers like Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, or Morphine after injuries or surgeries. Addiction can develop quickly when patients take more than prescribed, sometimes within days or weeks.

When prescriptions run out or doctors refuse refills, many turn to heroin, a cheaper and more accessible alternative.

This epidemic affects all communities and demographics—mothers losing custody of children, young adults losing scholarships or jobs, and increased drug-related crime.

Arizona’s Response: The Opioid Epidemic Act

In January 2018, Governor Doug Ducey signed the Arizona Opioid Epidemic Act, aiming to address the crisis from multiple angles: prevention, treatment, and enforcement, while trying to protect patients with chronic pain and maintain compassion for those struggling with addiction.

The law includes provisions to:

  • Limit opioid prescriptions to safer amounts

  • Improve addiction treatment resources

  • Enhance law enforcement tools to combat illegal drug trafficking

If you have specific questions or need legal help with narcotic drug charges, it’s important to speak to an experienced attorney who understands Arizona’s drug laws and can defend your rights.