Although one’s college years may seem the perfect time for experimenting with drugs, many young people are unaware that their seemingly harmless actions may affect the rest of their lives. If caught using or distributing drugs on campus, Wisconsin students may face criminal charges and penalties as well as severe repercussions from university administration.
While each university has the ability to set their own campus policy in regards to drug use, many universities have similar penalties. At University of Wisconsin, students who are found selling drugs on campus grounds may be suspended for up to two years, depending on the specific details of the case. In some situations, students may be able to decrease their suspension period by agreeing to participate in drug counseling.
Students may become ineligible for college for a period of up to two years as a result of their first drug distribution conviction. Any further offenses may extend their ineligibility period, unless the student passes two drug tests, has their conviction expunged from their record or successfully completes a rehabilitation program.
In addition to a school suspension, students who are found guilty of committing drug crimes may lose their school funding through scholarships or federal aid. This can add up to thousands of dollars in lost school funds, and make it difficult for some students to return to school.
Whether attending the University of Wisconsin or another prestigious university, being convicted of a drug crime can have a significant impact on one’s academic future, and their ability to find a career. People who face criminal drug charges and university penalties may want to consider seeking legal counsel from an established criminal defense attorney.
Source: Madison.com, “Drug crime penalties are ‘huge’ for students,” Sean Kirkby, Sept. 14, 2014