In Florida, drug trafficking is defined as possessing, manufacturing, or transporting illegal drugs or controlled substances in order to sell or distribute them. This type of drug crime usually involves a significant amount of narcotics, rather than enough for simple possession.
Drug trafficking is a first-degree felony, punishable by a maximum prison term of 30 years. However, mandatory minimum penalties are associated with certain weight classes.
The exact penalties are based on the type of drug involved in the alleged offense and the amount. If there is a firearm involved in the offense, “armed trafficking” can be brought as a subsequent charge and result in increased penalties.
Marijuana Trafficking
Between 25 pounds and less than 2,000 pounds, or between 300 plants and less than 2,000 plants carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of three years and a maximum fine of $25,000. Between 2,000 pounds and less than 10,000 pounds, or between 2,000 plants and less than 10,000 plants can result in a seven-year mandatory minimum sentence and a fine no more than $50,000. Possession of 10,000 pounds or more, or 10,000 plants or more is punishable by a mandatory minimum term of 15 years and a fine not exceeding $200,000.
Cocaine Trafficking
Between 28 and less than 200 grams can lead to a mandatory minimum prison sentence of three years and a maximum fine of $50,000. Between 200 and less than 400 grams carries a seven-year mandatory minimum sentence and a fine no more than $100,000.
Between 400 grams and less than 150 kilograms can result in a mandatory minimum term of 15 years and a fine not exceeding $250,000. Possessing 150 kilograms or more is punishable by mandatory life imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000.
Heroin Trafficking
Between four and less than 14 grams can lead to a mandatory minimum prison sentence of three years and a maximum fine of $50,000. Between 14 grams and less than 28 grams carries a seven-year mandatory minimum sentence and a fine no more than $100,000. Between 28 grams or less than 30 kilograms can result in a 25-year mandatory minimum term and a maximum fine of $500,000.
Methamphetamine Trafficking
Between 14 and less than 28 grams is punishable by a mandatory minimum prison sentence of three years and a maximum fine of $25,000. Between 28 grams and less than 200 grams can lead to a seven-year mandatory minimum sentence and a fine no more than $100,000. Between 200 grams or more carries a mandatory minimum term of 15 years and a fine not exceeding $250,000.
Federal Drug Trafficking
If the drug trafficking offense involved bringing drugs from one state or country to another, then federal authorities will handle the case. Federal penalties are more severe compared to state penalties.
Whether you have been charged with a state or federal drug crime in Miami, the Law Office of Armando J. Hernandez, P.A. is committed to fighting for you. As a former prosecutor with more than 15 years of experience, Mr. Hernandez has successfully handled thousands of complex cases throughout Florida.
If you are interested in experienced and knowledgeable legal services in Miami, contact us today at (305) 400-0074 and request a free case review.