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Drug Trafficking

Drug trafficking is a grave offense that can result in significant penalties, including incarceration and substantial monetary fines. If you or someone you care about has been charged with drug trafficking, it is crucial to seek the assistance of a qualified lawyer immediately. At Hanlon Law, our attorneys possess extensive knowledge and expertise in defending clients charged with drug trafficking in Kissimmee, Florida. We are skilled in navigating the complex criminal justice system and are prepared to safeguard your rights and liberty.


Drug Trafficking Charges 


The Florida Statutes Chapter 893 outlines the state's drug trafficking laws, which encompass intentional drug activities such as sale, manufacture, purchase, possession, transportation, or delivery of a specified quantity of narcotics into the state. The threshold quantities for different drugs determine whether an activity constitutes drug sales or drug trafficking. Drug trafficking is considered a first-degree felony, carrying more severe consequences than those for sale or delivery.


The minimum thresholds for drug possession leading to drug trafficking charges are as follows:


  • Marijuana- possession of at least 25 pounds of cannabis or 300 cannabis plants 
  • Fentanyl, hydrocodone, oxycodone, morphine, and opium- at least 4 grams 
  • Cocaine and phencyclidine- at least 28 grams 
  • Amphetamine- at least 14 grams 
  • Methaqualone- at least 200 grams 
  • Gamma- hydroxybutyric Acid (GHB)- at least 1 kilogram 
  • Lysergic Acid (LSD)- at least gram 


The listed thresholds indicate the minimum quantity required for drug trafficking charges to be imposed on an individual. As the amount of the drug involved in the charge increases, so does the possibility of a mandatory minimum prison sentence.


Penalties for Drug Trafficking in Florida


To be convicted of drug trafficking charges, the prosecution must establish with certainty that:


  • The defendant had knowledge of the illegal substance in question.
  • The substance in question is, in fact, illegal.
  • The weight of the substance meets or exceeds the minimum alleged amount.


The consequences of a drug trafficking conviction vary based on the type and quantity of drugs involved. Furthermore, non-citizens who are found guilty of a controlled substance offense face deportation from the US. Aggravating factors like prior drug convictions or possession of a firearm while committing drug trafficking can result in even more severe penalties, such as lengthier prison sentences and higher fines.


Penalties for Conviction of Marijuana Trafficking 


The mandatory minimum prison sentences and fines imposed after a conviction for drug trafficking of marijuana depend on the amount: 


  • 25 to 2,000 pounds (or more than 300 plants): 3-year minimum prison sentence and a $25,000 fine 
  • 2,000 to 10,000 pounds (or more than 2,000 plants): 7-year minimum prison sentence and a $50,000 fine 
  • 10,000 or more pounds (or more than 10,000 plants): 15-year minimum prison sentence and a $250,000 fine

 

Penalties for Conviction of Cocaine Trafficking 


The mandatory minimum prison sentences and fines imposed following a drug trafficking conviction for cocaine depend on the amount: 


  • 28 to 200 grams: 3-year minimum prison sentence and a $50,000 fine 
  • 200 to 400 grams: 7-year minimum prison sentence and a $100,000 fine 
  • 400 grams to 1.5 kilograms: 15-year minimum prison sentence and a $250,000 fine 


Penalties for Conviction of Heroin Trafficking 


Trafficking heroin is a first-degree felony, punishable by up to 30 years in prison. Still, the amount of heroin determines the mandatory minimum prison sentences and fines imposed after a conviction: 


  • 4 to 14 grams: 3-year minimum prison sentence and a $50,000 fine 
  • 14 to 28 grams: 15-year minimum prison sentence and a $100,000 fine 
  • 28 grams to 30 kilograms: 25-year minimum prison sentence and a $500,000 fine 


Penalties for Conviction of Oxycodone Trafficking 


The mandatory minimum prison sentences and fines imposed after a conviction for drug trafficking of Oxycodone depend on the amount: 


  • 7 to 14 grams: 3-year minimum prison sentence and a $50,000 fine 
  • 14 to 25 grams: 7-year minimum prison sentence and a $100,000 fine 
  • 25 to 100 grams: 15-year minimum prison sentence and a $500,000 fine 
  • 100 grams to 30 kilograms: 25-year minimum prison sentence and a $750,000 fine 


Defending Against Drug Trafficking Charges in Florida 


Obtaining evidence through search and seizure is often crucial in drug trafficking cases, but if the search and seizure was conducted unlawfully, any evidence obtained may be inadmissible in court. Therefore, your criminal defense attorney must examine the police conduct during your case to determine if your rights were violated during their investigation.


Another defense strategy is entrapment, where law enforcement induces a person to commit a crime that they would not have committed otherwise. If successful, a defense attorney may have the charges dismissed.


In addition to these defenses, a skilled criminal defense attorney should carefully analyze all aspects of your case to identify mitigating factors that could lead to a reduction or possible dismissal of the charges.


Protect Your Future With Hanlon Law


If you are facing drug trafficking charges, the potential consequences are severe and could significantly impact your life. That is why it is crucial to have an experienced criminal defense attorney by your side. At Hanlon Law in Kissimmee, our skilled lawyers are ready to assess the details of your case and work tirelessly to protect your rights and future. 


If you are facing drug trafficking charges in Kissimmee, Florida, contact the Kissimmee criminal defense attorneys at Hanlon Law today.

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