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In recent years, law enforcement agencies across the country have had to change their tactics to better combat the spread of a number of new drugs. The more that police focus on enforcement efforts aimed at specific drugs, the more common it is to see severe penalties, including jail time, for crimes including possession and distribution.

Recently, a drug called Molly has attracted the attention of both state law enforcement agencies and the federal Drug Enforcement Administration. The drug, popular at music festivals, concerts and clubs, is the crystal form of MDMA, a party drug commonly known as Ecstasy. According to the DEA, users prefer Molly to Ecstasy, which is usually taken in pill form, because it is perceived as a purer form of MDMA. In many cases, Ecstasy has been found to have been laced with other chemicals, ranging from methamphetamine to caffeine.

It is currently unclear how many people in the U.S. have used Molly, but it is clear that the drug is gaining in popularity. In 2011, a DEA sting in Syracuse, New York captured approximately 55 pounds of Molly worth at least $525,000. The sting led to the arrest and prosecution of 20 people. Since that time, an increasing number of law enforcement agencies have seen the drug appear locally. The DEA has said that Molly enters the U.S. from Asia, Europe and Canada.

Experts have suggested that one factor leading to the increased popularity of drugs such as Molly is a softening of public sentiment against the use of drugs. As evidence, they cite the fact that 17 states have passed laws allowing for the medical use of marijuana, with more likely to follow. Following this trend, U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder recently directed federal prosecutors to focus their efforts not on first time drug offenders, but rather on habitual offenders with established ties to organized crime.

Nevertheless, the possession and distribution of drugs such as Molly and marijuana remain serious crimes. If convicted, a person faces the threat not only of significant time in jail, but also of large fines. Furthermore, a conviction for a drug crime, particularly one that comes early in life, has the potential to negatively impact a person's life.

For these reasons, it is a good idea to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney if you are facing charges for a drug crime. A criminal defense lawyer can help you protect your rights.