Federal Drug Possession Penalties Federal drug possession charges may carry heavier penalties that state possession charges. If convicted, even of certain misdemeanors drug possession crimes, you will face the possibility of going to jail and you will have a criminal record.To be convicted of drug possession, the prosecutor must show that the defendant was in knowing possession of a controlled substance. Possessing "illegal drugs" may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. The prosecutor's decision often depends on the type and amount of drug involved. Felony drug charges can bring severe punishments and damage your future. Drug possession is the crime of willfully possessing illegal substances, such as marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, or heroin. In both cases, clients who successfully complete Drug Court avoid a felony conviction. Penalties for Felony Drug Possession Charges in Pinellas County. In Massachusetts, a conviction for any drug charge, even "simple" possession, will have far-reaching collateral consequences.