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 face severe consequences. One recent case underscores the severe consequences of mail order trafficking for offenders.
About the Case
In a recent case, U.S. District Judge Aileen M. Cannon sentenced a couple, Vanessa Kaiser and Ronald Kaiser, to federal prison for their involvement in a sophisticated mail-order drug trafficking operation. The two were found guilty of distributing controlled substances, including methamphetamine, through a foreign drug trafficking organization. Vanessa and Ronald played a crucial role in facilitating the distribution of narcotics bought from an online pharmacy by individuals across the United States.
Vanessa and her husband were involved in this unlawful scheme for around six months in 2023. People throughout the country placed orders for narcotics from an online pharmacy that did not require prescriptions. The couple then received the drugs from the foreign drug trafficking organization, after which they mailed the drugs to the customers, including those in South Florida. During the time that Vanessa and Ronald were involved in this scheme, they shipped almost 170,000 pills and funneled over half a million dollars from customers to foreign drug traffickers using online money transfer apps and bank accounts.
The judge sentenced Vanessa Kaiser to six years in federal prison, and Ronald Kaiser received nearly four years for his role in the scheme. This judgment came after the two pleaded guilty in December 2024. These lengthy sentences show how serious cases of mail-order drug trafficking are taken.
Collateral Consequences of Mail Order Drug Trafficking
Beyond prison sentences and fines, people found guilty of mail-order drug trafficking often face additional consequences, known as collateral consequences. Collateral consequences of a mail-order drug trafficking conviction can include a criminal record, which can cause stigma and asset forfeiture. For the Kaisers, this conviction could leave a permanent mark on their lives. For example, it could limit their ability to find jobs or housing after they leave prison.
Defending Against Mail Order Drug Trafficking Charges
Mail-order drug trafficking charges are serious. However, if you are faced with these charges, it does not mean you have no legal defenses. There are several viable defenses in a case of mail-order drug trafficking. To determine the best strategy for your case, you should consult with a qualified criminal defense attorney. That said, potential defenses include;
- Entrapment
- Illegal search and seizure
- Fabricated evidence
- Lack of evidence
- Flawed testimony
When faced with accusations of mail order drug trafficking, it’s wise to speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as early as possible. The right attorney can make a huge difference in the outcome of the case, be it negotiating a plea deal or fighting the charges in court.
Contact an Orlando Drug Trafficking Lawyer
If you have been charged with mail-order drug trafficking in Florida, contact our skilled Orlando drug trafficking lawyer at Joshi Law Firm, PA, as soon as possible to explore your legal options.
Source:
justice.gov/usao-sdfl/pr/california-couple-sentenced-prison-mail-order-drug-trafficking
