Challenging Drug Weight Calculation in Florida Meth Trafficking Cases
When faced with methamphetamine trafficking charges in Florida, the stakes can be incredibly high. These charges carry severe penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences and fines. One critical factor in determining the penalties for a meth trafficking charge in Florida is the weight of the drugs involved. Drug weight calculations in meth trafficking cases can be the difference between a manageable sentence and a devastating one.
In Florida, the amount used to determine meth trafficking charges may include not only the meth itself, but any mixture or substance containing methamphetamine. This can drastically increase the weight and result in much harsher penalties. If you are facing allegations of trafficking in meth in Florida, challenging the calculation of drug weight can be a crucial component of your defense strategy.
Why Does Drug Weight Matter in Florida Meth Trafficking Cases?
In Florida, the penalties for meth trafficking are tied to the drug weight. If you are charged with trafficking 14 grams or more but less than 28 grams of meth, you could face a mandatory minimum jail sentence of three years and a fine of $50,000. If the drug weight is 28 grams or more but below 200 grams, you could face a mandatory minimum jail sentence of seven years and a fine of $100,000. The mandatory minimum prison sentence for cases involving 200 grams or more is 15 years, and the fine is $250,000. This means that even a slight increase in weight can result in significantly longer prison time and higher fines.
A common issue in Florida meth trafficking cases is how the total weight of the drug is calculated. Under Florida Statutes Section 893.135, a person is guilty of methamphetamine trafficking if they knowingly sell, purchase, manufacture, deliver, or possess 14 grams or more of meth or a mixture that contains meth. This means that if you are accused of meth trafficking, the weight of the pure meth and other substances like cutting agents, such as diluents and adulterants, will be considered. For instance, suppose a seized substance contains 3 grams of meth and 11 grams of creatine or another cutting agent. In such a case, the total weight (14 grams) could still trigger meth trafficking charges under Florida law even though the weight of the actual meth is below the 14-gram threshold. This method of calculation can result in charges crossing into a significantly higher threshold, triggering enhanced mandatory minimum sentences and steeper fines.
How To Challenge Drug Weight in Florida Meth Trafficking Cases
Challenging the weight of the drugs involved is a critical defense strategy in meth trafficking cases in Florida, as even a slight increase in weight can lead to serious penalties. Below are some key strategies an experienced criminal defense attorney may use;
- Challenging field test accuracy, which often yields false positives
- Requesting independent lab testing to determine if meth is present at all
- Examining the chain of custody for mishandling or tampering
- Arguing a lack of knowledge
- Arguing that the equipment used to weigh the drugs was faulty
If you are facing meth trafficking charges in Florida, contact a defense attorney as soon as possible to begin working on your defense strategy.
Contact an Orlando Meth Trafficking Lawyer
If you are facing charges of trafficking in methamphetamine in Florida, contact an experienced Orlando meth trafficking lawyer at Joshi Law Firm, P.A. via 844-GO-JOSHI or 407-661-1109 or online for help developing a strong defense strategy.
