Trafficking in Methamphetamine

Methamphetamine is classified as a Schedule II drug in the state of Florida. This means the substance has a high potential for abuse and a low potential for medical use or treatment. Commonly known as “crystal meth”, “meth”, or “crank”, mere possession of this drug is a felony in Florida. If you are found in possession of 14 grams or more of methamphetamine, the crime is upgraded to trafficking. Penalties for a trafficking conviction can include several years in prison with a minimum mandatory sentence, hefty fines, and driver’s license suspension. If you or someone you know has been charged with trafficking in methamphetamine, contact an experienced Tampa drug attorney at Pallegar Law, P.A. today.

Definition of Trafficking in Methamphetamine

If you are caught with more than 14 grams of methamphetamine, the crime is automatically considered trafficking. Even if you did not sell, distribute, or manufacture the drug, possession of a large amount is considered trafficking. Trafficking charges are determined by the amount (or weight) of the drug possessed. If you possess a mixture containing methamphetamine, the entire weight of the mixture will be taken into account. For example, a mixture containing less than 50% methamphetamine but weighing more than 14 grams is enough to charge you with trafficking in methamphetamine. That is why it’s important to call a knowledgeable Tampa drug attorney at Pallegar Law, P.A. We will fight the charges against you to help you avoid strict penalties and hefty fines.

Penalties for Trafficking in Methamphetamine

In the state of Florida, trafficking crimes carry with them minimum mandatory prison time. This means that if you are convicted of a trafficking crime, you will be sentenced to at least three years in prison. If you are caught with between 14-28 grams of methamphetamine, the minimum mandatory sentence is three years in prison, with fines of up to $50,000. Possession of between 28-200 grams of methamphetamine has a minimum mandatory sentence of 7 years in prison, with fines of up to $100,000. Possession of 200 grams or more of methamphetamine has a minimum mandatory sentence is 15 years in prison, with fines of up to $250,000.

If you are convicted of trafficking in methamphetamine, not only are you looking at mandatory prison time, but the Florida DHSMV will also suspend your driver’s license for one year. If you have any kind of professional license, you are subject to emergency suspension of that license by the State of Florida.

Substantial Assistance in Trafficking Crimes

In many trafficking cases, the most common method used to avoid minimum mandatory sentences is that of substantial assistance. This method requires you to assist law enforcement in identifying and detaining other individuals involved in trafficking in controlled substances. However, as part of this agreement you may be ordered to identify a specific number of people. If you cannot provide substantial assistance in this way, you are facing the minimum mandatory sentence. It does not matter how hard you tried to provide substantial assistance.

Call Pallegar Law, P.A. Today

If you or someone you know has been charged with trafficking in a controlled substance, call an aggressive Tampa drug attorney at Pallegar Law, P.A. Call 813-444-3912 for your free consultation.