Paraphernalia
Va. Code 54.1-3466 — controlled paraphernalia means syringes and packaging under circumstances that show illegal use
What it means. Controlled paraphernalia means a hypodermic syringe, needle or similar instrument adapted for injecting controlled substances, under circumstances that reasonably indicate an intention to use it to administer a controlled drug illegally, or gelatin capsules, glassine envelopes or other containers suited to packaging individual quantities, in quantities and circumstances that reasonably indicate illegal manufacture or distribution.
The offense. Except as the chapter authorizes, it is unlawful to possess or to distribute controlled paraphernalia. A violation is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
The evidence. Circumstances showing intent include close proximity to adulterants or equipment commonly used to make and distribute controlled drugs, such as scales, sieves, strainers, measuring spoons, and staples and staplers.
Not covered. Drug checking products used to detect a dangerous contaminant are not controlled paraphernalia. The section also does not apply to needles and syringes possessed with naloxone dispensed as the law allows, or to paraphernalia from a comprehensive harm reduction program.
What counts as drug paraphernalia is defined elsewhere in the law, and the cannabis rules have their own page. Whether an object found in a particular search is paraphernalia is a question of fact and law for a licensed Virginia attorney.
Sources for this section (1)
- Va. Code 54.1-3466 — Possession or distribution of controlled paraphernalia
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Virginia attorney.