What does possession of a controlled substance entail?

Possession of a controlled substance primarily refers to having physical control or dominion over illegal drugs or substances that are classified under the law. This often includes the ability to exercise actual management or control over the substance, such as keeping it for one's personal use.

In the context of Missouri law, possessing a controlled substance means that an individual has the drug in their presence or control, and it is intended for their personal use rather than for distribution or sale. The legal definitions focus on the ownership and the intention behind the possession.

Other options differ in nature from the standard definition of possession. Using a controlled substance in a public place generally relates to the act of consumption rather than possession itself. Possessing small amounts of drugs for distribution involves the intent to distribute, which elevates the crime from mere possession to a more serious offense. Similarly, delivering drugs to another person involves transferring possession, moving beyond the scope of just holding or storing a controlled substance. Thus, option B accurately captures the essence of possession as it pertains to personal use without the implication of distribution or public usage.