Pensacola Drug Trafficking Lawyer

Florida’s war on drugs is ongoing, with a significant amount of police and prosecutorial resources devoted to busting even low-level drug offenders. The penalties for a drug crime conviction can be steep, including significant prison time and heavy fines. 

The state of Florida imposes mandatory minimum sentences for drug trafficking crimes, which often result in unjust punishments for offenders. In addition to the heavy mental and financial strain these charges put on you and your family, your criminal record can haunt you for the rest of your life.

Fortunately, at Crawford Law, we believe you deserve quality defense. We will work to reduce the repercussions of any drug trafficking charge so you can put felony charges behind you. We handle narcotics cases of all kinds at the state and federal levels. Our extensive trial experience and skills could make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. 

Drug Trafficking Charges in Florida

Drug trafficking typically refers to the sale, distribution, transportation, and/or import or export of illegal drugs, such as cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, fentanyl, LSD, ecstasy, and more. These are considered serious crimes by both the state of Florida and the federal government. Thus, you can face charges in both the state and federal court systems.

How you are charged will depend on the quantity and type of drugs involved, as well as other factors, such as the location of the alleged crimes and whether they involved crossing state or national borders. 

At the state level, drug trafficking charges typically involve the transportation or selling of a certain amount or quantity of illegal drugs. It is generally charged as a first-degree felony with mandatory minimum sentencing of up to 30 years in prison, depending on the circumstances. For example, trafficking in cocaine can result in a minimum mandatory sentence of three years in prison with a possible fine of up to $50,000 for those caught with 28 grams or more.

Drug trafficking can also include trafficking in prescription medicines, such as opioids, morphine, Valium, and others. As little as five Oxycodone pills can result in a mandatory minimum sentence of three years, while 33 of these pills can incur 25 years of incarceration. 

Federal Drug Trafficking Charges

Federal drug trafficking charges can result in harsh penalties, including long prison sentences and hefty fines. Understanding these charges and their associated penalties is essential for anyone facing them. 

Some of the most common federal drug trafficking charges include:

Trafficking in Cocaine

Trafficking in cocaine charges can result in significant prison sentences and fines. For example, individuals caught with 500 grams or more of cocaine face a minimum of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10 million. Those caught with less than 500 grams can still face up to five years in prison and a $5 million fine.

Trafficking in Heroin

Trafficking in heroin carries similarly serious penalties. Those caught with over 100 grams of heroin can face a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison, increasing up to a maximum of 40 years. In addition, individuals may be fined up to $5 million. Group offenses can lead to $10 million in fines. 

Trafficking in Methamphetamine

Trafficking in methamphetamine is also a highly punishable offense. Those caught with 50 grams or more can face a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years in prison and a $10 million fine. However, those caught with more than 1 kilogram can face a minimum sentence of life in prison.

Possessing or Dealing Marijuana

While marijuana laws are rapidly changing and can vary from state to state, possessing or dealing marijuana can still be charged as a federal offense. Possessing over 100 marijuana plants or distributing over 100 kilograms of marijuana can lead to a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and a $10 million fine.

Penalties associated with federal drug trafficking charges vary based on the type and quantity of drugs, as well as your criminal history. Additional penalties can include asset forfeiture by the government; this can mean losing custody of property and profits resulting from drug trafficking. 

You Deserve a Viable Defense

You need an experienced trial lawyer if you are facing state or federal drug trafficking charges. At Crawford Law, we make protecting your future a priority.

Our knowledge of how prosecutors operate and our courtroom experience have given us deep insight into highly successful defense strategies. We will examine every aspect of your situation to find viable ways to build your case. Each strategy is customized to fit a client’s unique circumstances, and we deliver face-to-face counsel throughout the legal process. 

Get critical advice and guidance when you consult with our Pensacola drug trafficking attorney. Contact Crawford Law at (850) 220-2098 today.