What is one of the penalties for possessing controlled substances within 500 feet of a building?

Possessing controlled substances within 500 feet of a building typically falls under enhanced penalties due to the proximity to areas such as schools, public housing, or youth centers. This increased severity aims to deter drug-related activities in places that are deemed sensitive or vulnerable to drug abuse.

The correct answer highlights a significant legal consequence that reflects this heightened concern: a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison or a fine of up to $100,000, or both. Such severe penalties are designed to underscore the seriousness with which the law views drug offenses executed near protected locations. This approach is intended to enhance community safety and reduce the impact of drug-related crimes on vulnerable populations.

The other choices present either minimal fines or penalties that do not correspond to the gravity of this offense, which is important for understanding the legal framework surrounding drug laws and their enforcement.