How Drug Weight Is Calculated in Arkansas (And Why It’s Often Wrong)
Drug weight determines whether you’re charged with simple possession, possession with purpose, or trafficking. But police and labs often calculate weight incorrectly — sometimes drastically.
Here’s what actually counts as “weight” under Arkansas law.
1. Packaging Cannot Be Included
Officers sometimes weigh:
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bags,
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foil,
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containers,
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vials,
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pill bottles.
All of these must be excluded. Including packaging can bump a charge from possession to trafficking.
2. Moisture and Purity Affect Weight
Drug weight can be inflated by:
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moisture,
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contaminants,
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cutting agents.
Labs occasionally weigh the substance “as is,” leading to inflated results.
3. Mixtures Are Counted Differently
Some drugs (like meth) include weight from the entire mixture. Others require specific concentrations. Misunderstanding these rules is common.
4. Combining Samples Can Create Errors
If officers mix samples before weighing, it becomes impossible to know:
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which part was usable,
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what came from where,
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whether the total weight is legitimate.
Improper testing can justify a motion to suppress or reduce charges.
5. Thresholds for Trafficking Are Strict
In Arkansas, trafficking is based solely on weight. Even a small mistake can transform a minor offense into a decades-long problem.
Bottom Line
Drug weight calculations are not always accurate — and small errors create huge consequences. If your case involves drug lab results, contact my office so I can review whether the weight is valid.
This blog post is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney-client relationship with Wesley Rhodes, Attorney at Law. If you need legal advice about your specific situation, you should consult with a qualified criminal defense attorney.