If a person distributes illegal drugs from one state to another, they could be arrested and charged with drug trafficking. Drug trafficking is a federal criminal offense that can lead to life-altering consequences, including incarceration and fines.
Here are some important facts to know about drug trafficking charges:
How are drug trafficking and drug possession different?
Drug trafficking and drug possession are not the same type of charges, though certain punishments may be similar. Drug possession means that a person was arrested for possessing and potentially distributing illegal substances. Drug possession may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the severity of the crime. However, drug trafficking is a felony, which can lead to much harsher charges than possession.
What are the punishments for drug trafficking?
Drug trafficking charges may vary depending on the severity of the substance and the amount the defendant possessed. Some felony charges for drug trafficking can lead to more than 10 years behind bars and $10 million in fines. These charges can increase for subsequent trafficking offenses.
What are the defenses for drug trafficking?
It is possible to reduce or dismiss drug trafficking charges with a strong legal defense. Some possible defenses include:
- Proving that the police performed an illegal search and seizure
- Demonstrating that the defendant was not aware of the substance
- Disputing the crime lab analysis of a substance
- Proving that a defendant was under duress and forced to commit a crime
Federal offenses are often difficult to fight alone. Professional legal guidance can help people fight criminal charges.
