Lynne Curtin, former star of Real Housewives of Orange County

This is not the first time Alexa has been in trouble with the law. She was previously charged for having heroin-covered paraphernalia and driving under the influence of drugs. Repeat drug or drugged driving offenders may receive harsher sentences each time they commit a crime.

For example, driving while under the influence of drugs is a misdemeanor for first time offenders in New York and penalties include a fine from $500 to $1,000, up to a year in jail and a minimum 6-month revocation of your license. However, a second offense within 10 years may get bumped up to a felony, which could result in a $1,000 to $5,000 fine, a minimum of five days in jail or 30 days of community service, up to four years in jail, and a 1-year license revocation.

Due to the potential consequences, it is important that you seek the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney if you are facing drug-related charges in New York. Knowledge is power after all.