Under Title 18, what defenses are available for drug offenses?

The correct response emphasizes defenses that are well-established under Pennsylvania law regarding drug offenses. Lack of knowledge about the substance can serve as a defense when an individual unwittingly comes into contact with a controlled substance, as intent often plays a critical role in criminal liability. Additionally, possessing a legally prescribed drug for personal use is another valid defense, provided that the individual has followed the legal protocols of obtaining and using the prescription correctly. These aspects reflect a clear connection to the intentions and actions of the accused, crucial elements in the determination of culpability.

Other options do not consistently align with established legal defenses. Claiming the substance was altered may not exempt one from liability unless it can be proven that such alterations fell outside the individual's control or knowledge. Social pressure isn’t typically recognized as a valid legal defense for drug offenses in Pennsylvania, as the law often holds individuals accountable for their own decisions regardless of external influences. An alibi based solely on being in a different location could be more pertinent in some contexts, but it usually requires substantial proof to establish that the individual could not have committed the offense, making it less directly relevant than the defenses associated with knowledge and lawful use of substances.