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 is convicted of trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine all at once, they may face compounded penalties, especially if they have a criminal record and firearms were involved in the trafficking. A recent case illustrates just how serious these consequences can be.

Real Case Example

A recent federal case in Tampa demonstrates how harshly the criminal justice system punishes people who distribute multiple substances. A U.S. District Court Judge sentenced Brendan Wells from Tampa to 29 years and 5 months in federal prison. On November 18, 2024, the defendant pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute drugs, possession with intent to distribute drugs, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.

Wells was involved in a large-scale drug operation in the Tampa area. In 2023, the police found fentanyl (399.7 grams), methamphetamine (408 grams), and cocaine (27.7 grams) in a storage unit that belonged to him and his co-conspirator. The police also found a loaded firearm and other materials consistent with drug distribution, such as mixing tools. Both Wells and his co-conspirator were already convicted felons at the time, and they were not allowed to possess firearms or ammunition. Because of this, the possession of a firearm made their drug trafficking case even more serious under federal law. Due to the amount of drugs involved, along with the firearm and previous criminal history, the defendant faced multiple charges that carried mandatory minimum sentences.

Florida Drug Trafficking Laws

In Florida, drug trafficking laws are codified in Florida Statutes Section 893.135. According to the statute, possessing over a certain weight of drugs is no longer considered simple possession, but is instead treated as trafficking even if the defendant did not intend to sell the drugs. Fentanyl possession arises when a person possesses 4 grams or more of the drug, methamphetamine trafficking occurs when a person possesses 14 grams or more of the drug, and cocaine trafficking involves possessing 28 grams or more of the substance. Each controlled substance carries its own set of mandatory minimum sentences, which are determined by the exact weight of the substance. For example, trafficking 28 grams or more but less than 200 grams of cocaine carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 3 years. In contrast, trafficking 4 grams or more but less than 14 grams of fentanyl carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 7 years. If convicted of trafficking multiple drugs at once, these consequences might stack or influence harsher sentencing.

Drug trafficking convictions involving multiple controlled substances like cocaine, fentanyl, and meth can have life-altering consequences, especially when combined with aggravating factors such as firearm possession or a criminal record. These cases can lead to lengthy prison sentences. It is in the best interest of individuals facing charges for trafficking multiple drugs to seek experienced legal representation. An attorney can help you build a strong defense, navigate the legal process, and protect your legal rights.

Contact an Orlando Drug Trafficking Lawyer

If you are facing drug trafficking charges, contact our skilled Orlando drug trafficking lawyers at Joshi Law Firm, P.A. for legal help.

Source:

justice.gov/usao-mdfl/pr/convicted-felon-sentenced-more-29-years-possession-intent-distribute-fentanyl