Being arrested on any drug charges is a serious matter that requires immediate help in Texas. An arrest for drug trafficking and distribution needs a strong defense as your freedom depends on it.
What is drug trafficking and distribution?
Texas has strict laws regarding the trafficking and distribution of drugs. Even small quantities can result in a harsh sentence being handed down if there is a conviction. Trafficking is deemed much more serious than possession of a small amount of drugs.
Per the Texas Controlled Substances Act, trafficking involves transporting an illegal drug across state lines. Drug distribution involves the delivering of a controlled substance through means other than administering or dispensing. Specifically, distribution is treated as a form of selling drugs even if no money changes hands upon delivery.
What are the penalties for drug trafficking and distribution?
A person who is convicted of drug trafficking and distribution can face harsh penalties. The exact sentence handed down depends on the type of drug and the amount of it as well as any aggravating circumstances. If the crime involves delivering drugs to a person under the age of 18 or if a firearm is used, the punishment is much harsher.
These drug offenses are classified as a felony, which means that a person could receive a prison sentence of up to 10 years to life in prison for 1 kilogram of heroin or 5 kilograms of cocaine. A prison sentence of five to 40 years could be ordered for a person convicted of trafficking 100 grams of heroin or 500 grams of cocaine.
For less serious drugs involving a smaller quantity, a person convicted might face under one year in jail and or a fine of up to $4,000. This crime would be considered a misdemeanor.
Drug charges can change lives and should be taken seriously.