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In the last decade, cocaine has been making a comeback in Maryland. Between 2008 and 2013, the number of cocaine-related deaths in Maryland remained constant. Between 2015 and 2016, the number of cocaine-related deaths increased 110%, it then increased 49% between 2016 and 2017, and finally by 29% between 2017 and 2018. The increase in cocaine-related deaths is largely attributed to cocaine usage in combination with opioids. In 2018, 82% of cocaine-related deaths occurred in combination with fentanyl. Nearly 900 people have died from cocaine related overdoses in Maryland in 2018. Of these, 423 deaths have occurred in Baltimore. Despite only accounting for 10% of Maryland’s population, Baltimore accounts for nearly half of cocaine related deaths.

The sale, distribution and production of cocaine, is illegal and are considered felonies in every state. Possession of small amounts of cocaine can lead to serious penalties and Maryland’s states. Additionally, there is an increase in severity and punishment depending on whether the defendant has prior drug convictions and depending the quantity of drugs involved.

The table below outlines the charges and penalties under Maryland's cocaine laws.

However, these penalties may not be applied to all offenders as prosecutors can offer plea bargains in exchange for helping to build a case against those higher on the chain such as producers and dealers. Furthermore, first-time or second-time offenders may be offered time spent in rehabilitation rather than a jail sentence.