For the manufacture or delivery of a substance in penalty group 3 if it exceeds 200 grams, what is the minimum penalty?

In Texas, substances classified under penalty group 3 include drugs that are considered to have a lower potential for abuse compared to those in higher penalty groups. However, the law still imposes significant penalties for offenses involving these substances.

When it comes to the manufacture or delivery of a substance in penalty group 3, if the amount exceeds 200 grams, the offense escalates to a much more severe level. Specifically, the statute dictates that this quantity results in a first-degree felony charge.

A first-degree felony carries a minimum sentence of 5 years and can go up to 99 years in prison, reflecting the seriousness with which the legal system treats large quantities of controlled substances, even those deemed less dangerous than others. This is crucial for maintaining public safety and deterring significant drug trafficking offenses.

The other options represent lower-level felonies or alternative sentencing options that would not be applicable in this case of exceeding 200 grams in penalty group 3 substances. Understanding these classifications and the implications of weight or quantity is essential for anyone preparing for law enforcement roles, as it underscores the legal framework surrounding drug offenses.