Rhode Island Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, 21 U.S.C. Sec. 841(a)(1), is a federal criminal offense. It occurs when an individual knowingly and intentionally possesses a controlled substance with the intent to distribute or sell that substance. This crime can be charged in two ways: (1) Possession with Intent to Distribute (PAID) and (2) Conspiracy to Distribute. Possession With Intent to Distribute (PAID) is the most serious of the two offenses and is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, depending on the amount of the controlled substance. A person can be charged with PAID if they are found in possession of a controlled substance, with the intent to distribute the substance to another person. Conspiracy to Distribute is a lesser charge and is punishable by up to 5 years in prison. In order to be guilty of Conspiracy to Distribute, an individual must have planned or agreed with another person to possess, manufacture, or distribute a controlled substance. Both PAID and Conspiracy to Distribute are serious offenses in the state of Rhode Island. If an individual is charged with either offense, they should seek legal representation as soon as possible.