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 you know is facing cocaine trafficking charges in Florida, it is crucial to understand what the law says, the penalties involved, and the potential legal defenses.
What Is Considered Cocaine Trafficking in Florida?
According to Florida Statute Section 893.135, cocaine trafficking arises when a person knowingly sells, buys, delivers, produces, or brings into Florida 28 grams or more of cocaine. It is also cocaine trafficking if you are in actual or constructive possession of 28 grams or more of cocaine. Trafficking in cocaine is classified as a first-degree felony and carries mandatory prison sentences.
Penalties of Cocaine Trafficking in Florida
In Florida, the penalties for a cocaine trafficking charge depend on the amount of drugs in question. The greater the amount, the more severe the consequences. Florida law imposes mandatory minimum sentences for cocaine trafficking based on the following weight thresholds;
- 28 to 199 grams – Mandatory prison term of 3 years and a fine of $50,000
- 200 to 399 grams – Mandatory prison term of 7 years and a fine of $100,000
- 400 grams to 149 kilograms – Mandatory prison term of 15 years and a fine of $250,000
- 150 kilograms or more – Life in prison without the possibility of parole
Often, these penalties are non-negotiable. It is therefore vital for those facing cocaine trafficking charges to retain an experienced defense attorney.
How a Conviction Can Affect Your Future
Being convicted of cocaine trafficking in Florida can lead to more than just jail time and hefty fines. The consequences of a conviction can follow you even after you leave prison. A conviction of cocaine trafficking can result in;
- Loss of voting rights
- Loss of firearm rights
- Loss of professional licenses
- Ineligibility for some jobs
- Difficulty finding housing
- Difficulty obtaining credit
When Charges Can Trigger Federal Prosecution
Sometimes, cocaine trafficking is prosecuted at the federal level. Typically, the federal government gets involved when;
- The drug went across state lines
- The weight involved is significantly large
- An organized crime group is involved
- There are several co-defendants in different states
Usually, federal charges come with harsher penalties than state charges.
Legal Defenses Against Cocaine Trafficking Charges
The following are some of the defenses attorneys use to fight against cocaine trafficking charges;
- Lack of Knowledge – If you were not aware that the substance was cocaine or that it was in your possession.
- Entrapment – If law enforcement coerced someone into committing a crime they wouldn’t have otherwise committed.
- Illegal Search and Seizure – If the police obtained the cocaine through a warrantless search, an improper stop, or coerced consent.
- Chain of Custody Issues – If the cocaine was mishandled, it may be inadmissible.
- Weight Disputes – If the actual weight of the cocaine is less than what you are accused of trafficking, it may reduce your charges.
A skilled defense attorney can help determine the best defense strategy to fight cocaine trafficking charges.
Contact an Orlando Cocaine Trafficking Lawyer
If you or someone you know is facing cocaine trafficking charges in Orlando, contact our skilled Orlando cocaine trafficking lawyer at Joshi Law Firm, PA, today to discuss your case.
