The Harsh Consequences of Dark Web Fentanyl and Meth Distribution
Selling fentanyl or methamphetamine on the dark web might seem anonymous. You might think that you cannot get caught if you run such an online drug trafficking operation. This is farthest from the truth. In the United States of America, authorities are working hard to take down drug trafficking networks, including online ones. What might start as a few online transactions can quickly escalate into severe federal charges, resulting in decades behind bars. If you are facing charges of dark web fentanyl and meth distribution, it is crucial that you understand the consequences of such charges and how to protect yourself.
Real Case Example
In a recent case from Tampa, a U.S. District Judge sentenced a defendant, whom, for purposes of this article, we will refer to as J.B., to 15 years and 8 months in federal prison. The 30-year-old who is a resident of Largo, had pleaded guilty to charges of conspiring to distribute fentanyl and meth through a dark web marketplace last year in October.
Court documents indicated that the defendant used a dark web marketplace to sell counterfeit prescription pills across the United States. He marketed fentanyl disguised as oxycodone and methamphetamine disguised as Adderall. One of J.B.’s online sales resulted in the fatal overdose of a customer in Montana.
This case shows just how seriously federal prosecutors treat dark web fentanyl and meth distribution cases, especially when they involve death.
Understanding Dark Web Drug Trafficking
The “dark web” comprises encrypted online platforms hidden from regular search engines. Only users with specific software, configurations, or authorizations can access the dark web. The dark web allows private computer networks to communicate and conduct business anonymously without revealing identifying information, such as location. These features make the dark web a popular place for illegal activities, including the sale of controlled substances like fentanyl and methamphetamine. Often, sellers accept cryptocurrency to hide the identity of both sellers and buyers.
However, federal agencies like the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) have developed tools to investigate and infiltrate the dark web. J.B.’s case was investigated by the DEA, the FBI (Boston), and other agencies. Some common tools and strategies these agencies use to take down dark web markets include undercover operations, digital forensics, and blockchain tracing.
How an Attorney Can Help
If you are involved in or even suspected of being involved in trafficking drugs through the dark web, especially controlled substances like fentanyl and meth, it is crucial that you retain a skilled defense attorney as soon as possible. Prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively, and federal agencies can track activity no matter how “anonymous” it may appear. A skilled criminal defense attorney can help you understand your legal rights. They can examine the evidence the prosecution has against you and help you build a strong defense strategy. An attorney with experience defending similar cases can help you fight for the best possible outcome.
Contact an Orlando Drug Trafficking Lawyer
If you are being accused of trafficking fentanyl or meth or any other drug through the dark web, contact an experienced Orlando drug trafficking lawyer at Joshi Law Firm, PA, via 844-GO-JOSHI or 407-661-1109, or online for legal help.
Source:
justice.gov/usao-mdfl/pr/dark-web-fentanyl-distributor-sentenced-more-15-years-federal-prison
