Author Archives: Jay Butchko

Not Just the Kingpins: How Street-Level Fentanyl Dealers Are Facing Harsh Consequences
When people think about drug trafficking charges, they often think about cartel leaders and major traffickers. However, in Florida, these are not the only targets in drug trafficking cases. Law enforcement officers go after everyone and anyone involved in the drug distribution chain, even in the “smallest” way, including mid-level distributors and street-level dealers…. Read More »

Can You Beat a Cocaine Trafficking Charge if the Search Was Illegal?
A cocaine trafficking charge can turn your life upside down. In Florida, the offense of cocaine trafficking is taken very seriously. This crime carries minimum mandatory prison sentences and hefty fines. Depending on the quantity of drugs involved, a conviction could even result in life in prison without parole. But what if the evidence… Read More »

What Happens if You’re Caught With 200 Grams or More of Meth in Florida?
Meth or Methamphetamine is considered a Schedule II controlled substance. Schedule II drugs are considered to have a high potential for abuse. In Florida, possessing 14 grams or more of this substance can result in a first-degree felony charge for trafficking. The offense of meth trafficking carries harsh penalties. The consequences can be far… Read More »

The Harsh Consequences of Trafficking Fentanyl, Meth, and Cocaine All at Once
Drug charges have significant consequences that can impact an individual long-term in almost all aspects of their life. Drug trafficking charges are among the most serious. In Florida, trafficking drugs like fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine can trigger severe penalties. When drug trafficking charges involve multiple substances, the stakes get even higher. If a person… Read More »

How To Beat Felony Drug Charges in Florida
Being charged with a felony drug offense in Florida can be life-changing. Florida enforces some of the strictest drug laws in the country, and a conviction could mean lengthy prison time, hefty fines, and a criminal record that follows you for life. However, facing a felony drug charge doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be convicted… Read More »

Being Nervous During a Traffic Stop Doesn’t Give Police a Reason To Detain You
If you are driving with a broken tag or brake light, you may be stopped by police officers for this. Getting pulled over by the police can be nerve-wracking, even if it’s just for something minor. The officer may approach you, ask why you were stopped, and ask for your license registration and insurance… Read More »

Can a Confidential Informant Impact the Outcome of Your Florida Drug Trafficking Case?
As criminal defense attorneys, we have seen several drug trafficking cases involving confidential informants (CIs). The stakes in such cases are usually higher in comparison to cases that don’t involve CIs. The presence of a CI in your Florida drug trafficking case can dramatically alter the course of your case. Informants can provide critical… Read More »

Understanding Cocaine Trafficking Laws and Penalties in Florida
Florida has some of the strictest drug laws in the country, with cocaine trafficking being among the most serious drug crimes in the state. If convicted of drug trafficking, you could face significant fines and a lengthy prison sentence. A conviction can also adversely affect your future in several ways. If you or someone… Read More »

Consequences of Mail Order Drug Trafficking
Over the past few years, online pharmacies and mail-order services have grown in popularity in the United States of America. This rise has created an avenue for illegal drug trafficking. In Florida, authorities are always trying to combat this issue. If you are found guilty of mailing drugs to people in Florida, you could… Read More »

The Harsh Reality of Conspiracy to Traffic Cocaine in Florida
In its essential terms, a conspiracy is when two or more people agree to commit an unlawful act. When it comes to drug crimes, individuals agree to perform acts that violate state or federal drug laws. Conspiring to traffic cocaine is a serious crime in Florida, which can lead to severe penalties. The exact… Read More »