HARVARD COLLEGE
ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUG POLICY (back to top)
Harvard College expects its students to be familiar with alcohol and drug regulations. It will respond to violations of policy in a manner described in this handout. The range of sanctions, in some cases quite wide, results from the need to consider differing individual situations and the possibility of repeated violations of the rules. Students should not assume that, with a first violation, the response will necessarily be the least severe.
ALCOHOL
THE LEGAL DRINKING AGE IN MASSACHUSETTS IS 21. IT IS A VIOLATION OF MASSACHUSETTS LAW FOR ANYONE UNDER 21 YEARS OF AGE TO POSSESS ALCOHOL AND FOR ANYONE OF LEGAL DRINKING AGE TO PROVIDE ALCOHOL TO SOMEONE UNDER 21 YEARS OF AGE. VIOLATORS WILL BE SUBJECT TO COLLEGE SANCTIONS RANGING FROM A WARNING TO ADMINISTRATIVE BOARD ACTION. THE ABUSE OF ALCOHOL MAY RESULT IN ADMINISTRATIVE BOARD ACTION AND/OR MANDATORY ALCOHOL TREATMENT. THE COLLEGE STRONGLY ENCOURAGES AND SUPPORTS EVENTS AND ENTERTAINMENT WITHOUT ALCOHOL.
THE COLLEGE PROHIBITS ANY PROVISION OF LIQUOR TO INDIVIDUALS UNDER 21 IN PRIVATE AS WELL AS PUBLIC SETTINGS. HOSTS OF A PARTY OR INDIVIDUALS ARE SUBJECT TO COLLEGE DISCIPLINARY ACTION IF THEY GIVE OR PROVIDE ALCOHOL TO UNDERAGE PERSONS. HOSTS ARE ALSO EXPECTED TO TAKE REASONABLE MEASURES TO PREVENT UNDERAGE GUESTS FROM OBTAINING ALCOHOL AT PARTIES.
THE COLLEGE REQUIRES THAT ANY DELIVERY OF ALCOHOL TO THE HOUSES BE REGISTERED WITH THE HOUSE TO ENSURE THAT IT IS MADE TO A PERSON OF LEGAL AGE WHO TAKES RESPONSIBILITY FOR ITS PROPER AND LEGAL USE. DELIVERY OF ALCOHOL TO THE FRESHMAN DORMITORIES IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED.
MERE POSSESSION OF ILLEGAL DRUGS (INCLUDING MARIJUANA), EVEN IN SMALL QUANTITIES, IS AGAINST BOTH THE LAW AND COLLEGE RULES, AS IS THE SHARING OF ILLEGAL DRUGS WITH ANOTHER.
For parties that take place outside of students' suites (i.e., those that are not strictly "private"), students are responsible for complying with event guidelines and for completion and submission of the Harvard College On-line Event Registration Form (www.hupd.harvard.edu/forms/). Students must demonstrate proof of minimum drinking age by presentation of the University I.D. card, which includes a photograph and date of birth, in order to be served or provided an alcoholic beverage. Their non-Harvard guests who wish to be served or provided an alcoholic beverage must demonstrate proof of a minimum drinking age by showing a driver's license and a second form of identification (one of the above must include a photograph). For parties that take place outside of students' suites, the hosts are responsible for their guests' behavior; for registering with their House all orders for delivery of alcohol; and for providing, if there is alcohol, both food and an adequate supply of non-alcoholic beverage alternatives.
For private parties (i.e. those that take place in student suites), students are responsible, if alcohol is to be served or provided, for establishing an effective system of checking I.D.s to ensure that the legal drinking age in Massachusetts of 21 is upheld. Students must be familiar with their own Houses' procedures and policies for entertaining; must not advertise the event; and must not collect money. For private parties, the hosts are responsible for their guests' behavior; for registering with their House all orders for delivery of alcohol; and for providing, if there is alcohol, both food an an adequate supply of non-alcoholic beverage alternatives.
Iinformation on important resources is included in the Empowering You guidebook, published jointly by the College and University Health Services. We encourage students to be mindful of the effects of, and problems related to, alcohol use, and hope students will be prepared to act responsibly. Please consult your guidebook or the Empowering You website for lists of campus and community resources, support groups, and other essential information on alcohol use and abuse.
Consultations with health and counseling services are on a confidential basis, and the College encourages students to take full advantage of these resources. Therefore, intoxicated students who seek medical attention, or are brought to UHS for medical care, will not be subject to discipline for violating the College's alcohol policies. The health and safety of students is the College's highest priority.
Sanctions for Alcohol
| Nature of Activity | Range of Possible College Responses |
|---|---|
Simple consumption or possession of alcohol in private quarters by under-aged students |
Informal warning, House or Freshman Deans warning, Administrative Board action, including probation and requirement to withdraw. |
| Consumption of liquor in a public space, public streets, etc. by any student, including those of legal drinking age. | Same as above. |
| Casual serving of alcohol to under-aged persons, such as getting a drink for someone under 21 at a House party; or making alcohol available to those under 21 at a "private" party. | Same as above. |
| Although of legal drinking age, buying or arranging to provide alcohol for others under 21 - or arranging for alcohol delivery without proper registration. | Same as above. |
| Use of false identification or other deception to obtain alcohol while under-age. | Administrative Board action, including probation and requirement to withdraw. |
| Other disciplinary incidents where alcohol abuse is a contributing factor; i.e., public disturbance, destruction of property, violent behavior. | Mandatory alcohol treatment or education may be added to the normal penalty for a disciplinary infraction. |
ILLEGAL DRUGS
Because the use of controlled substances is illegal*, no distinction needs to be made between House and College parties and private entertainment. We expect students to be familiar with the laws and criminal penalties for offenses and encourage them to read a pamphlet entitled Alcohol and Other Drugs: Risky Business (available from the UHS Center for Wellness and Health Communication) which makes clear the dangers inherent in use and/or abuse. Again, students are responsible for their guests' behavior.
Sanctions for Illegal Drugs
| Nature of Activity | College Response |
|---|---|
| Individual possession or individual use of illegal drugs | House or Freshman Dean's warning; Administrative Board action depending on circumstances. |
| Providing illegal drugs to others in any quantity, whether or not for money. | Administrative Board action including warning, probation, requirement to withdraw, and dismissal, depending on circumstances. |
In addition to the responses enumerated above, a House may also require a student to give up residence for behavior that jeopardizes the health or well being of the community. Treatment or counseling may also be mandated.
*Some drugs or "controlled substances" may be exempted if prescribed for medical purposes and used in accordance with the prescription.
Please click on the link below to view Vice President and General Counsel Robert W. Iuliano's memorandum to the Harvard Community
regarding Federal and State Substance Abuse Laws
Memorandum from the General Counsel (pdf)
PART 1: SUMMARY OF LAWS RELATING TO ALCOHOL (back to top)
MASSACHUSETTS LAWS
General Restrictions; Sale of Alcoholic Beverages.
Massachusetts law defines "alcoholic beverages" as "any liquid intended for human consumption as a beverage and containing one half of one per cent or more of alcohol by volume at sixty degrees Fahrenheit." One may not manufacture with intent to sell, keep for sale, store, transport, import, or export alcohol or alcoholic beverages without the appropriate license from the local licensing authority or Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission. There are several very limited exceptions to these general requirements. For example, a person over 21 may transport, for his or her personal use, up to 20 gallons of malt beverages, three gallons of any other alcoholic beverage, or one gallon of alcohol, without a permit. Failure to obtain a required license can result in a fine not to exceed $2,500 and imprisonment not to exceed six months. Persons engaging in the sale of alcohol are also subject to state tax.
Those who hold licenses to sell alcoholic beverages at retail may do so only at the specific physical location that has been licensed, and only during the hours permitted by statute or by the license itself. Retail licensees are further subjec to certain regulations of the Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission, commonly known as "Happy Hour" regulations. These prohibit, among other things, free drinks; the delivery of more than two drinks to one person at one time; the sale or offer to sell drinks at a price less than the price regularly charged for such drinks during the same calendar week; the sale or offer to sell an unlimited number of drinks during any set period of time for a fixed price; the sale or offer to sell malt beverages or mixed drinks by the pitcher except to two or more persons; the increase in the volume of alcohol contained in a drink without increasing proportionately the price regularly charged for such drink; or the holding of any game or contest which involves drinking or the award of drinks as prizes. One is prohibited from selling or delivering alcohol to an already intoxicated person on licensed premises.
A licensee who violates these requirements may, in addition to the fines and imprisonment noted above, have its license suspended or revoked and, if the licensee's operation of its premises is judged to be a nuisance, may also be enjoined from continuing such operation. A licensee may not hire anyone under the age of 18 to handle or sell alcoholic beverages.
Sale, Delivery, or Furnishing to Persons under 21; Misrepresentation of Age
It is against the law in Massachusetts for someone under the age of 21 to possess alcohol or to transport or carry it (unless accompanied by a parent of legal guardian). Persons violating this law are subject to fines and to arrest without a warrant. If they are operating a vehicle while in possession of alcohol, their driver's license may be suspended. (There is an exception for persons 18 to 21 who carry alcohol as part of a job.) All persons, whether or not licensees, are prohibited under Massachusetts law from selling or delivering any alcoholic beverages or alcohol to any person under 21, and from delivering or procuring to be delivered, on licensed premises, alcoholic beverages or alcohol to or for the use of a person whom one knows or has reason to believe to be under 21 years of age. The penalty for violating these laws is a fine of not more than $2,000, imprisonment for not more than one year, or both.
It is also against the law in Massachusetts for persons under 21 years of age to purchase or attempt to purchase alcoholic beverages, or to make arrangements to purchase or procure such beverages. The law prohibits willfully misrepresenting one's age or altering, defacing, or otherwise falsifying identification offered as proof of age, with the intent of purchasing alcoholic beverages. Knowingly making a false statement as to one's own age or to the age of another to procure sale or delivery of alcohol beverages to the underaged person; or inducing a person under 21 years of age to make a false statement about his or her age in order to procure a sale or delivery of alcohol to such underage person, also violates the law. These violations are punishable by a fine of $300. The court will report any violations to the Registrar of Motor Vehicles who will suspend the license or right to operate a motor vehicle for 180 days.
Any person who transfers, alters, or defaces a liquor identification card or driver's license, or who makes, uses, carries, sells, or distributes a false identification card or license, or who makes, uses, carries, sells, or distributes a false identification card or license, or uses the identification card or motor vehicle license of another, or furnishes false information in obtaining such card or license, is guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not more than $200 or imprisonment by not more than three months. In addition, for any of these violations, the Registrar of Motor Vehicles may suspend the offender's license and registration for up to one year.
Driving While Under the Influence of Alcohol; Conducting Other Activities While Under the Influence of Alcohol
Anyone operating a motor vehicle while drinking from an open container of an alcoholic beverage is subject to a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500.
A conviction for driving while under the influence of alcohol may resule in fines, imprisonment, mandatory alcohol education or rehabilitation, and revocation of one's license to operate. These penalties grow increasingly severe with each successive conviction. A first conviction may result in a fine of up to $5,000 and imprisonment of up to two and one-half years. Under certain circumstances, a first offender may be placed on probation and assigned to an alcohol rehabilitation program in lieu of such penalties. If a first offender is placed on probation and participates in an alcohol education program, his or her license to operate shall be suspended for no less than 45 days and no more than 90 days, unless such person was under the age of 21 when the offense was committed, in which case his or her license is suspended for 210 days. If a person does not qualify for probation, his or her license is revoked for one year. A second offense within ten years carries a fine of not less than $600 nor more than $10,000, imprisonment up to two and one-half years with a mandatory 30 days minimum service, and license revocation for two years. A third offense within ten years carries a fine of not less than $1,000 nor more than $15,000 and imprisonment up to five years with a mandatory 150 days minimum service. A third offense also results in a eight year license revocation. Additional offenses are punishable by even more stringent sanctions. Penalties are increased if, while driving under the influence of alcohol, one operates a motor vehicle negligently or recklessly, resulting in serious bodily injury or death to another person.
Massachusetts law also provides for the suspension and revocation of license if one's license is suspended in another state or country for driving while under the influence.
Massachusetts law also prohibits conducting a number of other activities under the influence of alcohol, including hunting and operation of aircraft, motorboats, snow vehicles, or recreational vehicles. These activities are punishable by fines and/or imprisonment. Possession of alcohol on a school bus containing pupils, or on the grounds of a public school, is also punishable by fines and/or imprisonment.
Miscellaneous Laws
Massachusetts laws also prohibit improper labeling of patent food or medicines containing alcohol, hawking or peddling of alcohol, the sale for consumption of methyl (wood) alcohol, or the providing or alcohol to prisoners, inmates of public institutions, or those committed for treatment of alcohol dependency.
Local Ordinances
The city ordinances of both Boston and Cambridge prohibit public consumption of alcohol and impose fines for violations of these ordinances. The regulations of Metropolitan District Commission, which has jurisdiction over land along the Charles River, also prohibit public consumption of alcohol. Massachusetts law further provides that one violating ordinances regarding public consumption of alcohol is subject to arrest without a warrant.
Federal Laws
There are federal laws and regulations which govern alcohol related advertising, taxes, antitrust and unfair competition, importing and exporting, packaging and labeling, and shipping and mailing. Violations of these laws and regulations may result in fines, imprisonment, and loss of licenses or other rights.
PART 2: SUMMARY OF LAWS RELATING TO CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES (back to top)
Classification of Drugs
Both the Massachusetts and federal statutes classify drugs according to their relative potential for abuse. Criminal penalties for offenses vary according to the classification of drugs (termed "controlled substances"). The Massachusetts statute groups controlled substances into Classes A through E for purposes of specifying criminal penalties; the federal statute groups them into Schedules I through V.
Listed below are Massachusetts and federal classifications of the more widely known controlled substances (this is not meant to be an exhaustive list). Generally, narcotic (addictive) and other drugs subject to a high potential for abuse are listed in class A or B and Schedule I or II. It will be noted that the Massachusetts Controlled Substances Act (M.G.L. c.94C) places marijuana and hallucinogenic substances in lower classifications than does the federal statute (21 U.S.C. § 812).
| Heroin, morphine | Class A; Schedule I |
| Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) | Class B, Schedule I |
| Opium poppy, cocaine, codeine, methadone, phencyclidine (PCP, "angel dust") | Class B; Schedule II |
| Amphetamines and methamphetamines* ("speed") | Class B; Schedule II |
| Hallucinogenic substances, including dimethoxyamphetamine (STP), mescaline, peyote, psilocybin (Mexican mushroom), tetrahydrocannabinols (THC, the active ingredient in marijuana) | Class C; Schedule I |
| Diazepam (valium), chlordiazepoxide (librium) | Class C |
| Marijuana | Class D; Schedule I |
| Barbital, phenobarbital | Class D; Schedule IV |
| Compounds containing small percentages of codeine, morphine or opium | Class E; Schedule V |
* Any injectable liquid containing any quantity of methamphetamine is a Schedule II substance.
Criminal Penalties for Manufacture, Distribution or Possession
Every person who proposes to "manufacture [or] distribute" any controlled substance is required to register with the United States Attorney General and the Massachusetts Commissioner of Public Health. "Manufacture" includes production, packaging, or repackaging. "Production," in turn, includes manufacture, planting, cultivation, growing, or harvesting. "Distribute" means "deliver," i.e., the actual or attempted transfer of a controlled substance. Researchers in controlled substances are also subject to registration requirements. Possession of controlled substances is illegal unless pursuant to a valid prescription or authorized by appropriate registration.
Generally, the penalties for manufacture or distribution are greater than those for simple possession. Under the federal statute, however, distribution of a "small amount" of marijuana for "no remuneration" is subject to the lesser penalties provided for simple possession. Both the Massachusetts and federal statutes provide that illegal possession with intent to manufacture or distribute is subject to the same penalties as illegal manufacture or distribution. Generally speaking, illegal possession of relatively large quantities of any controlled substance will be considered possession with intent to distribute.
Under both federal and Massachusetts law, second and subsequent convictions for illegal manufacture, distribution or possession may result in penalties much greater than those for the first conviction. In addition, both federal and Massachusetts law provide that certain offenses will be punished by mandatory minimum terms of imprisonment. In Massachusetts, such offenses include: second or subsequent convictions for manufacture or distribution of Class A, Class B or Class C drugs; illegal manufacture or distribution of phencyclidine (PCP); "trafficking" in marijuana, cocaine, heroin, morphine or opium (defined as manufacture, distribution, cultivation, possession with intent to manufacture or distribute, or importation into the state of more than 50 pounds of marijuana or 14 grams of cocaine or heroin); distribution or possession with intent to distribute Class A, Class B, or Class C drugs to persons under 18 years of age; and second or subsequent offenses of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Under federal law, offenses subject to mandatory prison terms include: manufacture, distribution, or possession with intent to manufacture or distribute large amounts of certain Schedule I or II drugs, including heroin, cocaine, crack, PCP and LSD (with mandatory life imprisonment for a third conviction); participation in a continuing criminal enterprise; and second or subsequent convictions for importing or exporting large quantities of certain Schedule I and II drugs. Where a mandatory prison term is specified, the full mandatory minimum term must be served. It may not be suspended, reduced or served on probation, and a person sentenced to a mandatory term is not eligible for parole, furlough, or work release.
Additional Criminal Penalties Under Massachusetts Law
The Massachusetts Controlled Substances Act provides penalties for being present at a place where it is known heroin is illegally being kept and for being "in the company of" a person whom it is known illegally possesses heroin. The phrase "in the company of" has been constructed by the Supreme Judicial Court to mean "something that smacks of fellowship." It must also be proven that the defendent knew heroin was present or that his/her companion possessed the drug. For both crimes, the Commonwealth may establish a "prima facie" case, i.e., demonstrate that it is very probable the defendent knew heroin was there, in which event the defendent must establish that he/she did not know of the presence of the drug. As a consequence of this statute, anyone in the presence of heroin at a private party or in a dormitory suite runs the risk of a drug conviction.
Theft of controlled substances and unauthorized possession of a hypodermic needle are also subject to additional penalties under the Massachusetts statute.
The sale of or possession with intent to sell "drug paraphernalia" is illegal. The definition of "drug paraphernalia" includes all equipment or materials used or intended (among other things) to "contain, conceal, inject, ingest, inhale, or otherwise introduce into the human body a controlled substance" in violation of Massachusetts law.
Finally, operation of a motor vehicle under the influence of any drug or intoxicating substance, including liquor, can lead to imprisonment and revocation of one's license.
Additional Criminal Penalties Under Federal Law
Under the federal Drug Abuse Act (21 U.S.C. ' ' 801-970), the distribution of any controlled substance by a person at least 18 years old to a minor (a person under 21 years of age) is punishable by twice the penalty (for a first offense) or three times the penalty (for a second offense) otherwise provided, and includes a mandatory minimum one year prison term (except for a first offense involving less than 5 grams of marijuana) and mandatory life imprisonment without release for a third conviction. These increased penalties also apply to distribution of any controlled substance in or within 1000 feet of a school, college, playground, or youth center, and within 100 feet of a public swimming pool or video arcade. This means that drug offenses occurring on or near the campus or involving students may be subject to much greater penalties than would otherwise apply.
Illegal importation or exportation of controlled substances and the use of a communication facility (including mail and telephones) in committing any felony under the Drug Act are also subject to additional penalties.
The Drug Abuse Act provides special penalties for the crime of being engaged in a “continuing criminal enterprise” to violate the Act. A person is engaged in a “continuing criminal enterprise” if (1) he/she commits a felony under the Act, (2) that felony is undertaken in concert with 5 or more other persons with respect to whom the violator occupies a position of “management,” and (3) the violator obtains substantial income from it. The penalties for committing this crime are very severe.
Federal law provides for greatly heightened prison sentences for manufacture and distribution of Schedule I or II drugs if death or serious bodily injury results from the use of the substance. In addition, as a result of the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988, a person who intentionally kills someone or intentionally causes a killing in the course of manufacturing, distributing, importing or exporting large amounts of certain Schedule I and II drugs or in the course of continuing criminal enterprise may be sentenced to death. Any person who intentionally kills or causes the intentional killing of a law enforcement official while committing or attempting to avoid apprehension, prosecution, or service of a prison sentence for a federal drug felony also may be sentenced to death.
As well as increasing many of the existing penalties for possession, manufacture, and distribution of controlled substances, the Anti-Drug Act of 1988 introduced new measures to punish drug offenders. At the discretion of the court, an individual who is convicted of any federal or state offense involving the possession of a controlled substance as defined for purposes of the Controlled Substances Act can be declared ineligible for any or all federal benefits for up to one year from the time of conviction. In the case of a second drug possession conviction, the court may declare the individual ineligible for any or all federal benefits for up to five years. An individual convicted of any federal or state offense consisting of the distribution of controlled substances (“trafficking”) can be declared ineligible for federal benefits for up to five years for a first conviction; up to ten years for a second conviction; and permanently for a third or subsequent conviction. Federal benefits include grants, contracts, loans, professional licenses or commercial licenses provided by an agency of the United States.
Finally, the Federal Sentencing Guidelines which apply to all persons convicted of violating federal drug laws may affect the fines and prison sentences imposed on violators.
Federal Trafficking Penalties (back to top)
| DRUG/SCHEDULE | QUANTITY | PENALTIES | QUANTITY | PENALTIES |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cocaine (Schedule I) | 500 - 4999 gms | First Offense: Second Offense: |
5 kgs or more | First Offense: Second Offense: 2 or More Prior Offenses: |
| Cocaine Base (Schedule I) | 5 - 49 gms mixture | 50 gms or more mixture | ||
| Fentanyl (Schedule I) | 40 - 399 gms mixture | 400 gms or more mixture | ||
| Fentanyl Analogue (Schedule I) | 10 - 99 gms mixture | 100 gms or more mixture | ||
| Heroin (Schedule I) | 1000 - 999 gms mixture | 1 kg or more mixture | ||
| LSD (Schedule I) | 1 - 9 gms mixture | 10 gms or more mixture | ||
| Methamphetamine (Schedule II) | 5 - 49 gms pure or 50 - 499 gms mixture | 50 gms or more pure or 500 gms or more mixture | ||
| PCP (Schedule I) | 10 - 99 gms pure or 100 - 999 gms mixture | 100 gm or more pure or 1 kg or more mixture | ||
PENALTIES |
||||
| Other Schedule I & II drugs | Any amount | First Offense: Not more than 20 yrs. If death or serious injury, not less than 20 yrs, or more than life. Fine $1 million if an individual, $5 million if not an individual. Second Offense: Not more than 30 yrs. If death or serious injury, not less than life. Fine $2 million if an individual, $10 million if not an individual. |
||
| Flunitrazepam (Schedule IV) | 1 gms | |||
| Other Schedule III drugs | Any amount | First Offense: Not more than 5 yrs. Fine not more than $250,000 if an individual, $1 million if not an individual. Second Offense: Not more than 10 yrs. Fine not more than $500,000 if an individual, $2 million if not an individual. |
||
| Flunitrazepam (Schedule IV) | 30 or more mgs | |||
| All other Schedule IV drugs | Any amount | First Offense: Not more than 3 yrs. Fine not more than $250,000 if an individual, $1 million if not an individual. Second Offense: Not more than 6 yrs. Fine not more than $500,000 if an individual, $2 million if not an individual. |
||
| Flunitrazepam (Schedule IV) | Less than 30 mgs | |||
| All Schedule V drugs | Any amount | First Offense: Not more than 1 yr. Fine not more than $100,000 if an individual, $250,000 if not an individual. Second Offense: Not more than 2 yrs. Fine not more than $200,000 if an individual, $500,000 if not an individual. |
||
Federal Trafficking Penalties - Marijuana
| DRUG | QUANTITY | 1ST OFFENSE | 2ND OFFENSE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marijuana | 1,000 kg or more mixture; or 1,000 or more plants | Not less than 10 yrs, and not more than life. If death or serious injury, not less than 20 yrs, and not more than life. Fine not more than $4 million if an individual, $10 million if not an individual. | Not less than 20 yrs, and not more than life. If death or serious injury, mandatory life. Fine not more than $8 million if an individual, $20 million if not an individual. |
| Marijuana | 100 - 900 kg mixture, or 100 - 999 plants | Not less than 5 yrs, and not more than 40 yrs. If death and serious injury, not less than 20 yrs, and not more than life. Fine not more than $2 million if an individual, $5 million if other than an individual. | Not less than 10 yrs, not more than life. If death or serious injury, mandatory life. Fine not more than $4 million if an individual, $10 million if not an individual. |
| Marijuana | 10 kg or more hashish; 50 - 99 plants | Not more than 20 yrs. If death or serious injury, not less than 20 years, not more than life. Fine $1 million if an individual , $5 million if not an individual. | Not more than 30 years, and not more than life. If death and serious injury, mandatory life. Fine $2 million if an individual, $10 million if not an individual. |
| Marijuana | 1 - 49 plants; less than 50 kg mixture | Not more than 5 yrs. Fine not more than $250,000 if an individual, $1 million if not an individual. | Not more than 10 yrs. Fine $500,000 if an individual $2 million if not an individual. |
| Hashish | 10 kg or less | ||
| Hashish Oil | 1 kg or less |
| SUBSTANCE | STREET NAMES | APPEARANCE | ADMINISTRATION | AVERAGE DURATION OF EFFECTS | AVERAGE DETECTION IN BODY | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H |
LSD PCP Psilocybin Mescaline Ketamine MDMA |
acid, microdot, cube, trips, tabs, doses, hits angel dust, hog, rocket fuel shrooms, caps, magic mushrooms peyote, buttons, cactus special K, K hole, vitamin K Ecstacy, X, E, XTC, love drug, hug drug |
blotter acid, microdots, window panes, sugar cubes powder, pill, liquid used to dip joints, etc. mushroom pieces/parts dried cactus "buttons," dark brown powder powder, tablet, liquid tablet or capsules |
oral oral, snorted, smoked, injected oral (eaten, brewed in tea, capsules), smoked (laced in joints, etc.) oral oral, snorted, smoked, injected oral |
8-12 hours up to days, injected variable 8-12 hours 1-2 hours variable |
8 hours 2-8 days 8 hours 2-3 days 9-14 days 1-2 days |
D E P R E S S A N T S |
GHB Barbiturates Benzodiazepines Rohypnol Alcohol |
liquid x, scoop, georgia home boy, somatomax, G Amytal, Nembutal, Seconal, Phenobarbital, "barbs", "downers" Ativan, Halicon, Librium, Valium, Xanax, "tranks" (tranquilizers) roofies, rope, the forget pill liquor, beer, wine |
powder; odorless, colorless, tasteless liquid (most common) pill or liquid pill pill liquid |
oral oral, injected oral, injected oral, snorted oral |
3-6 hours 1-16 hours 4-8 hours 4-8 hours 1-4 hours |
1-2 days 2-10 days 1-6 weeks 2-14 days .016 BAC/hr. |
S T I M U L A N T S |
Ritalin Methamphetamine Cocaine & Crack Caffeine |
speed, west coast crank, ice, crystal, glass, fire, croak, crypto, speed coke, snow, flake, blow, big C, lady, snowbirds |
pill powder/pieces varying in color from white to tan to pink white powder/pieces/rocks white crystalline powder (natural form) |
oral, snorted, injected oral, smoked, snorted, injected smoked (crack), snorted, injected oral (energy drinks, OTC pills, coffee, soda, etc.) |
2-4 hours 2-4 hours 1-2 hours 1-2 hours |
1-2 days 1-2 days 1-4 days --- |
N A R C O T I C S |
Opium Heroin Morphine Codeine Hydrocodone Oxycodone |
laudanum, paregoric, dover's powder horse, smack, brown sugar, bomb, skunk, shag, mud, cheva M, morph, unkie, miss emma school boy, t-three's brand names include Vicodin, Lorcet, Dolacet & Hydrocet brand names include Oxycontin & Percolone; "poor man's heroin" |
dark brown powder or pieces white/brown powder or black powder/pieces (Mexican Tar) white crystalline powder pill or syrup pill or syrup pill |
oral, smoked injected, snorted, smoked oral, injected, smoked oral, injected oral oral, snorted, injected |
3-6 hours 3-6 hours 3-6 hours 3-6 hours 3-6 hours 4-12 hours |
1-3 days 1-3 days 1-3 days 1-3 days 1-3 days 1-3 days |
C |
Marijuana Hash Hash Oil |
pot, reefer, grass, ganga, weed hashish --- |
compact dried leaves and stems finely compacted dried flowers/leaves black/brown or amber-colored oil |
oral (eaten, brewed in tea), smoked oral, smoked smoked |
2-4 hours 2-4 hours 2-4 hours |
1 day - 5 weeks 1 day - 5 weeks 1 day - 5 weeks |
T O B A C C O |
Nicotine |
Of over 4,000 chemical compounds, nicotine is the active ingredient in tobacco. Vehicles of tobacco use include cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and smokeless tobacco (cancer stick, cig, stogie, dip, chew) |
oral (chewed), smoked |
2-7 hours |
1-2 days |
|
O T H E R |
Inhalants |
household or commercial products including paint thinner, aerosol sprays, cleaning products, glues, removers, gasoline, nitrous oxide, and amyl nitrate |
sniffed, huffed/bagged, snorted |
variable |
variable |
|
| SUBSTANCE | MEDICAL USES | SCHEDULE | SIGNS OF USE | GENERAL AND LONG TERM EFFECTS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
H |
LSD PCP Psilocybin Mescaline Ketamine MDMA |
none anesthetic (veterinary) none none anesthetic (veterinary) none |
Schedule I Schedules II, III Schedule I Schedule I Schedule III Schedule I |
dilated pupils, sweating, dry mouth, abnormal laughter, distration, rapid reflexes eye fluttering, sweating, flushed skin, drooling, numbness, blurred vision, garbled speech dilated pupils, sweating, flushed skin, shivering, yawning, mouth numbness dilated pupils, sweating, garbled speech, disorientation same as above dilated pupils, sweating, grinding teeth, jaw clenching, blurred vision, tremors |
GENERAL: varying degrees of illusions, hallucinations, synesthesia, disorientation, impaired coordination, and confusion. LSD, mushrooms, mescaline, and ecstacy use cause elevated heart rate, blood pressure & body temperature. PCP decreases these reactions. Extreme mood swings and impaired short-term memory are characteristic of LSD use. PCP is known for violent experiences ("bad trips"). Less acute hallucinations and high durations are attributed to mushrooms, ketamine and mescaline. Ecstacy is known for its stimulant-like qualities and feelings of empathy users demonstrate. LONG TERM: Physical tolerance and psychological dependence (and possible psychosis). Prolonged depression, anxiety, and flashbacks are attributed to ecstacy, LSD, and PCP use. Long term ecstacy use may result in liver or brain damage. |
D E P R E S S A N T S |
GHB Barbiturates Benzodiazepines Rohypnol Alcohol |
none anesthetic, anticonvulsant, hypnotic, sedative antianxiety, anticonvulsant, hypnotic, sedative none none none |
Schedule I Schedules II, III, IV Schedule IV Schedule IV not scheduled |
sweating, tremors, difficulty breathing, weakness blurred vision, slurred speech, staggering skin rashes possible poor coordination, sluggishness, sedation poor coordination, slurred speech, dilated pupils, smell on breath |
GENERAL: "drunken-like" state exhibiting nausea, drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, muscle relaxation, impaired coordination, lowered blood pressure, lowered heart rate, lowered respiratory rate. High doses of GHB and Rohypnol produce memory loss and sedation -- both are known as "date rape" drugs. High doses of other depressants also may lead to unconsciousness or coma. LONG TERM: Physical tolerance as well and psychological and physical dependence may occur. Prolonged use of benzodiazepines has been linked to aggression. Prolonged use of barbiturates has been linked to liver damage and severe mood swings. Permanent damage to brain & liver are just two on a long list of alcohol's long term effects on the body. |
S T I M U L A N T S |
Ritalin Methamphetamine Cocaine & Crack Caffeine |
Narcolepsy and ADHD none none an additive in many OTC pain relievers & cold remedies |
Schedule II Schedule II Schedule II not scheduled |
dilated pupils, sweating, dry mouth, talkative, flushed skin sweating, tremors, dry mouth, sores dilated pupils, tremors, twitching, restlessness, dry mouth tremors, frequent urination, agitation |
GENERAL: elevated heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate; decreased appetite, alertness, aggression, paranoia, depression, and irritability. At high doses ritalin, methamphetamine, and cocaine may cause sensory delusions. LONG TERM: Strong psychological dependence and varying degrees of physical tolerance. All stimulants have severe withdrawal symptoms. Prolonged use of ritalin and methamphetamine is linked to malnutrition, amphetamine psychosis, kidney and other tissue damage. Prolonged use of cocaine or crack is linked to eating disorders, impotence, seizures and strokes. |
N A R C O T I C S |
Opium Heroin Morphine Codeine Hydrocodone Oxycodone |
analgesic, antidiarrheal none analgesic analgesic, antitussive analgesic |
Schedules II, III, IV Schedule I Schedule II Schedules I, II, III, IV Schedules II, III Schedule II |
Narcotic use may result in constricted pupils, droopy eyelids, watery eyes, clammy or itchy skin, loss of appetite, sniffles, cough, nausea, lethargy, drowsiness and nodding. Scars caused by injections (syringes), bent spoons, and needles may be found from heroin, oxycodone, and morphine use. Codeine is commonly abused via OTC cough medicine. Hydrocodone and oxycodone are commonly abused prescriptives and bottles or containers may be evident. |
GENERAL: lowered heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate; nausea, drowsiness, poor concentration, lowered body temperature, decreased appetite, decreased sexual drive, and intense (but short) euphoria. Morphine and codeine have less pronounced effects than those of opium or heroin. The effects of oxycodone and hydrocodone vary depending on the means in which they are taken and the amount taken. A form of oxycodone, Oxycontin, in considered to be as volatile as heroin. LONG TERM: Severe physical & psychological dependence and physical tolerance; mood swings, severe constipation, menstrual irregularities, lung damage, skin infections, seizures, coma. All abused narcotics have severe withdrawal symptoms. |
C |
Marijuana Hash Hash Oil |
Marinol, a synthetic compound, has been approved by the FDA. Cannabis products have no medical use. |
Schedule I Schedule I Schedule I |
The use of all cannabis results in varying degrees of bloodshot eyes, dilated pupils, dry mouth, impaired motor skills, sweating, distraction and confusion, excessive talking, "skunky" odor on clothes, herbal and resinous substances in living area, small plastic baggies, home-made pipes, etc. |
GENERAL: elevated heart rate and blood pressure; impaired learning, memory, perception, and judgement; increased appetite, confusion, impaired concentration and motivation, paranoia and anxiety. LONG TERM: tolerance and psychological/physical dependence may occur, respiratory damage, and impaired short-term memory. |
T O B A C C O |
Nicotine |
treatment for nicotine dependence (patches, gum, etc.) |
not scheduled |
agitation (when in withdrawal), odor on clothes, loose tobacco and other tobacco products/packaging |
GENERAL: elevated heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate; decreased appetite, decreased skin temperature, relaxation, physical and psychological dependence. LONG TERM: cancer of lungs, mouth, and throat; respiratory disease, heart attack, stroke, stomach ulcers, and limitless others. |
O T H E R |
Inhalants |
none |
not scheduled |
red-runny eyes, sneezing, coughing, sores/spots around mouth, marker/paint marks on hands/arms |
GENERAL: lowered heart rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate; dizziness, hallucinations, euphoria, drowsiness, nausea. LONG TERM: damage to brain, liver, kidneys, nerves, and limitless others. |
Massachusetts Statute Prohibiting Firearms and Dangerous Weapons on University Campuses
and Requiring Reporting by the University of Violations (back to top)
Massachusetts has a criminal statute, (M.G.L. c.269, §10(j)), prohibiting persons (other than law enforcement officers), regardless of whether or not they have a license, from carrying a loaded or unloaded firearm or other dangerous weapon in any university building or on the grounds of the university without a written authorization of the board or officer in charge of the university. The definition of "firearm" included BB and pellet guns. A maximum penalty of $1,000 fine or one year in jail or both can be imposed.
It is also a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500 if any faculty member or administrative officer of a university fails to report violations of the statute.
You may assume that "dangerous weapon" includes items designed to do bodily injury such as a stiletto, ballistic knife, blackjack, brass knuckles, billy stick, switchblade knife, and martial arts items such as throwing stars, kung fu sticks, and nunchaku (sticks connected by a rope, chain, wire, or leather).
MASSACHUSETTS PROHIBITION OF HAZING (back to top)
All students at Harvard College should be aware of the provisions of the Massachusetts law herein reproduced, prohibiting the practice of hazing.
Section 17. Whoever is a principal organizer or participant in the crime of hazing, as defined herein, shall be punished by a fine of not more than three thousand dollars or by imprisonment in a house of correction for not more than one year, or both such fine and imprisonment.
The term 'hazing' as used in this section and in sections eighteen and nineteen, shall mean any conduct or method of initiation into any student organization, whether on public or private property, which wilfully or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of any sudent or other person. Such conduct shall include whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the weather, forced consumption of any food, liquor, beverage, drug or other substance, or any other brutal treatment or forced physical activity which is likely to adversely affect the physical health or safety of any such student or other person, or which subjects such student or other person to extreme mental stress, including extended deprivation of sleep or rest or extended isolation.
Notwithstanding any other provisions of this section to the contrary, consent shall not be available as a defense to any prosecution under this action.
Section 18. Whoever knows that another person is the victim of hazing as defined in section seventeen and is at the scene of such crime shall, to the extent that such person can do so without danger or peril to himself or others, report such crime to an appropriate law enforcement official as soon as reasonably practicable. Whoever fails to report such crime shall be punished by a fine of not more than one thousand dollars.
Section 19. Each institution of secondary education and each public and private institution of post secondary education shall issue to every student group, student team or student organization which is part of such institution or is recognized by the institution or permitted by the institution to use its names or facilities or is known by the institution to exist as an unaffiliated student group, student team or student organization, a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen; provided, however, that an institution's compliance with this section's requirements that an institution issue copies of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen to unaffiliated student groups, teams or organizations shall not constitute evidence of the institution's recognition or endorsement of said unaffiliated student groups, teams or organizations.
Each such group, team or organization shall distribute a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen to each of its members, plebes, pledges or applicants for membership. It shall be the duty of each such group, team or organization, acting through its designated officer, to deliver annually, to the institution an attested acknowledgment stating that such group, team or organization has received a copy of this section and said seventeen and eighteen, that each of its members, plebes, pledges, or applicants has received a copy of sections seventeen and eighteen, and that such group, team or organization understands and agrees to comply with the provisions of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen.
Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post secondary education shall, at least annually, before or at the start of enrollment, deliver to each person who enrolls as a full time student in such institution a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen.
Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post secondary education shall file, at least annually, a report with the board of higher education and in the case of secondary institutions, the board of education, certifying that such institution has complied with its responsibility to inform student groups, teams or organizations and to notify each full time student enrolled by it of the provisions of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen and also certifying that said institution has adopted a disciplinary policy with regard to the organizers and participants of hazing, and that such policy has been set forth with appropriate emphasis in the student handbook or similar means of communication the institution's policies to its students. The board of higher education and, in the case of secondary institutions, the board of education shall promulgate regulations governing the content and frequency of such reports, and shall forthwith report to the attorney general any such institution which fails to make such report.
(Massachusetts General Laws, ch. 269, Sections 17, 18, 19)