# Criminal Law (GCR)

## Title 5. Controlled Dangerous Substances, Prescriptions, and Other Substances

### Subtitle 6. Crimes Involving Controlled Dangerous Substances and Paraphernalia

#### Section 5-620

(a) Unless authorized under this title, a person may not:

  (1) obtain or attempt to obtain controlled paraphernalia by:

    (i) fraud, deceit, misrepresentation, or subterfuge;

    (ii) counterfeiting a prescription or a written order;

    (iii) concealing a material fact or the use of a false name or address;

    (iv) falsely assuming the title of or representing to be a manufacturer, distributor, or authorized provider; or

    (v) making or issuing a false or counterfeit prescription or written order; or

  (2) possess or distribute controlled paraphernalia under circumstances which reasonably indicate an intention to use the controlled paraphernalia for purposes of illegally administering a controlled dangerous substance.

(b) Evidence of circumstances that reasonably indicate an intent to use controlled paraphernalia to manufacture, distribute, or dispense a controlled dangerous substance unlawfully include the close proximity of the controlled paraphernalia to an adulterant, diluent, or equipment commonly used to illegally manufacture, distribute, or dispense controlled dangerous substances, including:

  (1) a scale;

  (2) a sieve;

  (3) a strainer;

  (4) a measuring spoon;

  (5) staples;

  (6) a stapler;

  (7) a glassine envelope;

  (8) a gelatin capsule;

  (9) procaine hydrochloride;

  (10) mannitol;

  (11) lactose;

  (12) quinine; and

  (13) a controlled dangerous substance.

(c) Information that is communicated to a physician to obtain controlled paraphernalia from the physician in violation of this subtitle is not a privileged communication.

(d) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to:

  (1) for a first violation, a fine not exceeding $500; and

  (2) for each subsequent violation, imprisonment not exceeding 1 year or a fine not exceeding $1,000 or both.

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Md. Code Ann., Crim. Law (as displayed at mgaleg.maryland.gov, October 16, 2026)