Methamphetamine Trafficking In Florida
Florida has a long history with drugs and drug smuggling, to the point where the state has a reputation in this day and age as one of the “toughest on crime” in the United States, particularly when it comes to drugs. One of the most commonly trafficked nowadays is methamphetamine, referred to as meth, ice, or speed. While most people think of drug traffickers as cartel members or old-fashioned gangsters, what they do not know is that Florida law allows a person to be charged with trafficking if they possess a certain amount of the drug, even with no intent to distribute it.
Taken Extremely Seriously
Florida takes drug trafficking in general very seriously, handing out harsh penalties for those convicted. Trafficking offenses are some of the few that still carry mandatory minimum jail sentences in Florida, which means those convicted of trafficking offenses must serve a certain minimum amount of time with no possibility of parole. The actual length of a mandatory minimum sentence for meth trafficking will vary based on the amount of the drug involved, though the absolute minimum is three years.
In recent years, Florida law enforcement has worked closely with federal officials to crack down on meth trafficking and production in the state, as it still remains one of the more frequently trafficked illicit materials. However, law enforcement is sometimes so zealous in prosecuting these offenses that they throw the proverbial book at individuals who may not have even been aware they were trafficking in drugs.
No Intent Required
What the average person does not know about charges of methamphetamine trafficking is that if a person possesses an amount that is over the specified limit, they may be charged with trafficking despite the lack of intent to distribute or commit any other drug offense. Florida law states that if one is stopped with 14 grams or more of methamphetamine, a trafficking charge is appropriate. The minimum sentence is three years, but it may be longer, depending on the person’s past criminal record and other factors.
If a person is charged with drug trafficking, it is somewhat more important to enlist an attorney as quickly as possible as it might be with other offenses. Drug trafficking cases come in many shapes and sizes, so to speak, so someone with experience is crucial to protect your rights as you go through the legal process. You are entitled to a defense, and with the right attorney, you will get your day in court.
Contact A West Palm Beach Drug Trafficking Attorney
If you have been charged with drug trafficking, it is absolutely imperative that you take it seriously. A West Palm Beach drug crimes attorney from the firm of Perlet & Shiner, P.A. can give you the defense you deserve. Call our office today to speak to an attorney.
