As of January 1, 2015, children under age 18 may not sell or possess any product containing the herbal drug Kratom.
Kratom is derived from the Mitragyna speciosa, a tree native to Thailand. Its effects are similar to morphine or opium.
The new law makes it a Class B Misdemeanor, punishable by 180 days in jail, for a minor to knowingly purchase or possess the substance. Other persons may not knowingly sell or distribute Kratom to a minor or buy the drug on their behalf. Minors may also be penalized for using fake identification to obtain the drug.
If you are charged under the new law, contact an experienced criminal law attorney immediately. Do not speak with the police or other third parties about your offense. Your attempts to talk your way out of the situation may end up digging you in deeper and limiting any defense you might otherwise have.
An experienced attorney can review your case for your best options. Perhaps you did not knowingly possess the drug. Or perhaps the police acted improperly when they arrested you. Even if the evidence against you is overwhelming, an attorney who is respected in the courthouse may be able to negotiate a more favorable plea agreement than you could on your own.
If you have questions about this or another related Illinois criminal or traffic matter, please contact Matt Keenan at 847-568-0160 or email matt@mattkeenanlaw.com.
(Besides Skokie, Matt Keenan also serves the communities of Arlington Heights, Chicago, Deerfield, Des Plaines, Evanston, Glenview, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Northbrook, Park Ridge, Rolling Meadows, Wilmette and Winnetka.)
