Which of the following refers to the possession of controlled dangerous substances with the intent to distribute?

The possession of controlled dangerous substances with the intent to distribute is specifically defined in law as "Possession with intent to distribute a CDS." This term encompasses two critical components: the act of possessing a controlled substance and the intention behind that possession, which implies preparing to sell or distribute the substance rather than merely holding it for personal use.

This legal definition is crucial because it distinguishes between simply possessing drugs and possessing them with a specific purpose, which can lead to more severe penalties. The intent to distribute indicates a higher level of involvement in drug trafficking activities, and law enforcement agencies typically gather evidence to support the claim of intent, such as the quantity of the substances, packaging materials, or other indicators of distribution.

Understanding this term is essential for law enforcement officers, as it directly impacts how they approach investigations and determine charges in drug-related cases. Properly categorizing an offense can affect legal outcomes and enforcement strategies significantly.