There are various reasons for a drug test. Maybe an employer wants to ensure that prospective new hires are free from the influence of illegal substances. Or a sports organization wants to test if student-athletes aren’t taking any performance-enhancing or recreational drugs. Regardless of the reason for testing, most drug tests will involve urine tests, where medical experts examine a person’s urine sample for any traces of substances like cocaine, fentanyl, opioids and amphetamines.
You might think you can avoid detection in a urine test by swapping your sample with another person’s. Perhaps you’re worried that a bit of marijuana use could cost you a new job or your place on a sports team, so you decide to purchase a urine sample from another person. However, this seemingly harmless act is a crime in Pennsylvania, with corresponding penalties for anyone convicted.
Facing criminal charges in Southeastern Pennsylvania? Put Bellwoar Kelly, LLP on your side. With decades of experience and courtroom wins in complex matters, our lawyers fight to protect your future. Call 610-314-7066 anytime, day or night, for a free consultation. Se habla español.
Using another person’s urine for a drug test is a crime
According to state rules, a person who uses or attempts to use drug-free urine to evade a test violates the law. Their offense is a third-degree misdemeanor, which leads to up to 90 days in jail and $5,000 in fines.
Selling urine for drug tests is also a crime
Similarly, it’s a crime to sell (or attempt to sell) drug-free urine with the intent to help the buyer deceive drug test results. Just like using clean urine, selling the stuff is also a third-degree misdemeanor, so a person convicted faces a maximum 90-day jail sentence and as much as $5,000 in fines.
Trying to fake drug test results isn’t worth it, especially if using a clean urine sample from another person is a crime. Although it’s not the most violent of offenses, the misdemeanor is still listed on a person’s criminal record.