A strong criminal defense in the face of drug trafficking charges is important. Because of the serious potential penalties and consequences associated with drug trafficking charges, they should not be taken lightly. Drug trafficking charges can involve controlled substances including heroin, methamphetamines, cocaine and marijuana but can also include prescription drugs if illegally obtained and sold. Penalties for drug trafficking charges are severe and can range from 3 to 5 years in prison and up to life in prison.
Drug trafficking charges are felony charges which makes them punishable by incarceration for a year or more. Although all criminal charges are serious, when compared to some other types of charges, such as misdemeanor charges, drug trafficking and felony charges are the most serious types of criminal charges accused individuals can face. Accused individuals can face the threat of a criminal record and the loss of their freedom and future.
Drug trafficking laws apply to the sell, transport and illegal import of prohibited controlled substances. The punishment for drug trafficking can vary and is dependent on several factors and the situation and circumstances of the alleged incident and the accused individual. The amount of drugs involved, the type of drugs involved, where they were distributed and if their distribution was targeted at children can all influence the potential penalties the accused individual faces.
An individual may be accused of drug trafficking if they have what authorities view as a large amount of drugs and cash on them. Because the penalties for drug trafficking crimes are so severe and far-reaching, it is important for accused individuals to understand that criminal defense rights make it possible for them to challenge the accusations and charges they are facing.
Source: Criminal.findlaw.com, “Drug Trafficking/Distribution,” Accessed Oct. 27, 2017