Methamphetamine continues to grow more popular among drug users in Florida and other parts of the country. Law enforcement officials use harsh legal consequences to discourage the use and distribution of this dangerous drug. One group of people are likely to find out just how serious law enforcement is taking this matter after a recent drug bust.
Case background
A narcotics investigation involving multiple law enforcement agencies led to the arrest of three individuals for possessing and dealing methamphetamine. The group possessed a little more than a pound of methamphetamine. Police also found several other illegal drugs in the suspects’ possession, including oxycodone and fentanyl.
The group includes two men and one woman whose ages range from 36 to 54 years old. Members of the group now await their day in court to answer for several drug-related charges. The most serious charge is trafficking methamphetamine.
Methamphetamine possession
A person found with less than 14 grams of methamphetamine in their possession will likely face 3rd-degree felony drug charges. A conviction can lead to a maximum prison sentence of five years, along with a $5,000 fine. Individuals convicted of methamphetamine possession can also have their driving privileges suspended.
Methamphetamine sale and manufacture
Defendants caught with 14 or more grams of methamphetamine face harsher consequences. These 2nd-degree felony charges apply to individuals who complete the sale or manufacture the drug or demonstrate the intent to do so. The manufacture or sale of methamphetamine carries a maximum prison sentence of 10 years. The maximum fine also doubles to $10,000, and a one-year license suspension is possible.
Methamphetamine trafficking
Once law enforcement officials attach trafficking charges to methamphetamine dealers, mandatory minimums apply. Mandatory minimum sentences range from three to 15 years in prison, depending on how much more than 14 grams the suspected dealer possesses. The maximum prison term is 30 years.
Individuals arrested on drug charges will need to prepare a defense to protect themselves from the full range of consequences. A criminal defense attorney will likely be able to help with this defense.
