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The Case of Anabolic Steroids: Offences Under ACT Law
Andrew Byrnes Law Group • September 6, 2020
Illegal drugs are heavily frowned upon by communities from all over the world. They are deemed as destructive, affecting human anatomy beyond just the physical. Australia is no different—in the context of the ACT, illegal drugs are heavily punished by various laws. Given the extent of the scope of illegal drugs, however, the law is divided into specifics, each according to drugs.
One of the heavily debated illegal substances are anabolic steroids, and in the ACT, prescription, supply, administration, and possession are strictly restricted.
If you find yourself dealing with charges against anabolic drugs, here is a guide on the offences and penalties, along with a quick discussion of what encompasses the drug in question. Let’s begin.
What are anabolic steroids?
In essence, anabolic steroids are drugs that stimulate the growth and repair of muscle tissue. They are known by other names, such as roids, gear, or juice. Anabolic steroids synthetically-made hormones that imitate the male sex hormone, testosterone. They are often injected or taken as a tablet, allowing it to be more potent.
The idea of using steroids may not seem like it would cause much harm on the surface, especially since the use of anabolic drugs is shrouded by actual medical uses. Steroids can be used to treat muscle loss, for instance, especially those caused by AIDS and cancer. Steroids can also be used to aid hormonal treatment in puberty, making it a safe and legal source of relief for many.
As with most drugs in the medical world, however, people have found ways to abuse the substance. Most individuals use steroids to build muscle and strength endurance, coupled with diet and exercise.
They are also used to improve physical appearance or sports performance, which is considered a banned practice in the world of sports. Taken too much, addiction may ensue, leading to dire consequences.
What are the offences surrounding anabolic steroid drugs?
Offence #1: The administration of anabolic steroids
Administration of anabolic steroids is deemed as an offence under section 173 of the Crimes Act 1900, be it on yourself or another person. A person found guilty may be required to pay a fine up to 50 penalty units and/or 6 months of imprisonment.
What constitutes this offence?
That the individual has administered the substance onto himself or someone else.
Offence #2: The possession of anabolic steroids
Under section 172 of the Crimes Act 1900, anyone found in the possession of anabolic steroid will be found guilty. They may be required to pay a fine of up to 50 penalty units and may face up to 6 months in prison.
What is required to be proven for this offence?
That the individual has been found in possession of the substance, and that substance has been proven to be an anabolic steroid.
Offence #3: The supply of anabolic steroid
According to section 171(2) of the Crimes Act 1900, any individual found supplying anabolic steroids to another person for use may be guilty of an offence. If found guilty, the individual may be required to pay a fine of up to 500 penalty units, and may face up to 5 years imprisonment.
What constitutes this offence?
That the individual has supplied the substance proven to be an anabolic steroid. It must also be for someone else and for human use.
Work With The Best Criminal Lawyers in Canberra
If you have been charged with using anabolic steroids for other than medical reasons, it’s important to get urgent advice from a criminal law expert.
Andrew Byrnes Law Group is ready to help. We are a Canberra criminal law firm dedicated to helping our clients achieve the justice they deserve. As fearless advocates and innovators, we’ll help you adopt the best defence strategies. Work with the best—book a free consultation today.
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