Drug Trafficking
Florida has developed into a hot spot for drug smuggling and other trafficking into the United States. It is considered to be an ideal location for bringing drugs into the country because of its long coastline. Drug traffickers are aware of these advantages, but so are the authorities. As drug offenses have become an increasingly prevalent problem, police and federal authorities have stepped up their efforts to thwart drug criminals.
Defining Drug Trafficking
Drug trafficking is an umbrella term that can include many different types of drug related activities. Any involvement in smuggling, distributing, or transporting drugs, raw drug materials, or equipment for drug manufacturing may be considered drug trafficking. Sometimes an individual may not even directly be involved in the movement of drugs but may be providing storage or a hiding place for drugs or drug materials that will eventually be distributed or sold. This can also qualify as involvement in drug trafficking.
Drug Trafficking Penalties
Florida has established particularly severe sentences for drug offenders. All drug trafficking charges are classified as first degree felonies, and drug offenses carry mandatory minimum sentences upon conviction. This means that even if your involvement in drug trafficking was relatively minor, you could find yourself facing long prison sentences and heavy fines. The minimum mandatory sentences for drug trafficking in Florida are:
- A minimum 3 year prison sentence, not to exceed 15 years
- A minimum $25,000 fine, not to exceed $500,000
The state of Florida takes drug offenses very seriously, as these steep penalties show. If you have been charged with drug trafficking, consider contacting a criminal defense lawyer immediately. He or she can advise you on what the best course of action would be for your case and can help you prepare a defense if you decide to fight the charges in court.
Contact Us
Don’t enter the courtroom feeling unprepared to defend yourself against the charges you face. A criminal defense lawyer can provide you with sound legal advice and help protect your rights under the law. If you have been charged with drug trafficking, don’t hesitate to contact the aggressive, experienced West Palm Beach defense attorneys of Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A., today at 561-353-2800.
