Penalties & Sentencing for Drug Trafficking in Oklahoma
Illegal drug crimes are some of the most seriously punished crimes in the United States, and amongst them, drug trafficking has particularly harsh penalties. Drug trafficking is a federal offense and can lead to a hefty prison sentence. Therefore, you should do everything possible to protect your freedom.
Free Resources from OKC Criminal Defense Attorneys:
Have you or a loved one been arrested in Oklahoma City? Are you concerned about your future following arrest in Oklahoma? Our team of Your Fierce Advocates® at Cannon & Associates is led by Army Veteran, John Cannon and we’re privileged to fight for client’s rights and freedom in Oklahoma criminal defense cases. Please review our other FREE RESOURCES until we can answer your specific Oklahoma criminal defense questions:
Have you been charged with a serious crime? Have you been arrested? Got warrants?! Worried about defending those charges or worried about how you can make them go away? Well it doesn’t have to be that way. Serious steps need to be taken to avoid charges from becoming convictions. If you answered yes to any of these questions, you need a defense lawyer right away. A lawyer can stop the police from contacting you directly. If you want to get this resolved so you can go back to living your life, CALL NOW at 405-591-3935. We’re available 24 hours a day, and 7 days a week to schedule a Free Case Planning Session to understand your options and rights in an Oklahoma criminal case!
Representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney will give you the best chance of obtaining a favorable result in your drug trafficking case. We are prepared to become fierce advocates for your freedom. The sooner you contact us, the quicker we can start putting together your best possible defense. Contact Cannon & Associates now for a free consultation at 405-591-3935.
What is a Controlled Dangerous Substance?
In Oklahoma City, OK, a controlled dangerous substance is a substance whose possession and use are regulated by the government under the Controlled Substances Act.
In the United States, drugs are categorized into five schedules based on their potential for harm and potential medical use. Drugs such as heroin are schedule I drugs and are considered to have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. On the other hand, schedule V drugs such as cough medicines containing small amounts of codeine have a low potential for abuse and accepted medical use.
If you were found to be trafficking schedule I or II drugs, then you could be facing charges for aggravated trafficking, which comes with more severe penalties.
Schedule I
Schedule I substances are those considered to be the most dangerous, with the highest potential for abuse and addiction. They usually have no accepted medical use, although recently marijuana has become legal in Oklahoma for medical use. If you are facing criminal charges in relation to schedule I drugs, then this could constitute aggravated trafficking. Schedule I drugs include:
- Marijuana.
- Methamphetamine (meth).
- Heroin.
- Crack cocaine.
- Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD).
Schedule II
Schedule II substances are considered less harmful and addictive than schedule I drugs and can be oftused for medical purposes such as pain relief. These drugs can still have very harmful effects on the user if abused and drug crimes involving substances in this schedule will still incur severe penalties. Schedule II drugs include:
- Oxycodon
- Adderal
- Fentanyl
- Methamphetamine
Schedule III
Schedule III substances are still harmful if abused but are less addictive than substances in schedules I and II. They are often used within medicine in the United States and include drugs such as:
- Ritalin.
- Codeine.
- Steroids.
- Ketamine.
Schedule IV
Schedule IV substances are commonplace in medicine and you will probably know them under their brand name. These prescription drugs shouldn’t be harmful if taken under the recommended guidelines, however, they still have the potential for abuse. Substances in schedule IV include:
- Ambien.
- Soma.
- Xanax.
- Valium.
Schedule V
Finally, schedule V substances are considered the least harmful and addictive, although they still have the potential for trafficking charges. They include:
- Lomita.
- Parepectolin.
- Cough medicine.
- Lyrica.
What is Drug Trafficking in Oklahoma City, OK?
Drug trafficking is a criminal act that involves unlawfully selling, manufacturing, importing, or transporting controlled dangerous substances. This includes prescription drugs. Drug trafficking or drug distribution is different from possession, as it involves knowingly selling, importing, or transporting drugs, or intending to do so.
Even if you were not found with illegal drugs, you can still be convicted of drug trafficking if you were found with drug-related materials such as baggies, scales, or even a large amount of cash. Therefore, if are facing potential charges, it is essential to speak with an experienced criminal defense lawyer.
Is Drug Trafficking a Federal Crime?
Drug trafficking can fall under state and federal law. If you are found to be trafficking illegal drugs across state lines, then it becomes a federal offense.
Drug trafficking does not have to be a big operation, under federal law drug trafficking is defined as: (21 U.S.C. § 841), “knowingly or intentionally– (1) to manufacture, distribute, or dispense, or possess with intent to manufacture, distribute, or dispense, a controlled substance.”
The law also continues to state that someone dealing with counterfeit substances can also face drug-related charges. Furthermore, you can face charges for simply having a certain amount of a controlled substance, even if you didn’t sell or transport it. This crime is known as possession with the intent to distribute.
Criminal Penalties for Drug Trafficking Cases
Penalties for trafficking in illegal drugs or aggravated trafficking will depend on many factors such as whether you are facing state or federal charges, the schedule of drugs you are accused of trafficking, whether it is your first offense, and other circumstances surrounding the crime. For example, if you were found to be trafficking marijuana across state lines and had 100 kilograms or more, then the minimum sentence is 10 years, and a maximum of life in prison. With such harsh sentences, it is essential you have the best criminal defense representation who can develop strong legal defense strategies.
Furthermore, if convicted, you will not be eligible for a suspended sentence, which means prison time is mandatory. In addition to serious prison time and hefty fines, you could also face forfeiture of all assets related to the drug trafficking operation, including properties, bank accounts, and vehicles. If you are facing a felony offense you could also face possible immigration consequences including deportation after your prison sentence.
What an Oklahoma City Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do For You
If you are facing drug trafficking charges in Oklahoma City, then you should speak to an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. You could be facing a lengthy prison sentence, ruined reputation, costly fines, and seized assets.
Drug trafficking cases take time to establish and prosecutors will want to have a strong case against you before they take you to court, which can take months. This can create opportunities for a criminal defense attorney to help your case. For example, if any mistakes are made that violate your rights, such as if any evidence was obtained illegally, then your attorney can file a motion to suppress the evidence.
Criminal defense lawyers in drug trafficking cases are invaluable. At Cannon & Associates, your drug trafficking defense attorney will be your fiercest advocate and legal resource. They will put together an aggressive defense strategy and look for any opportunity to help your case. If your case goes to court, they will be ready to fight for your freedom.
Defense Against Federal Drug Trafficking Charges
In order to be convicted of drug charges, it must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the crime. Having representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney will work to ensure that this standard is upheld, and will create doubt wherever possible.
Some possible defense strategies against a drug trafficking charge include:
- You didn’t have knowledge of the drugs.
- Police violated your rights when obtaining evidence.
- You were the victim of entrapment.
- You had no intention of selling or distributing the drugs.
- You believed the substance was legal.
- You were never in possession of the drugs.
- The arresting officer did not have probable cause for your arrest.
- There is not enough evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you are guilty of trafficking in illegal drugs.
If the prosecution has strong evidence against you, then your attorney may also be able to work out a plea bargain to secure you a lighter sentence. However, it is important to weigh up your options with an experienced drug trafficking defense attorney who has your best interest at heart.
Hiring the Right Oklahoma City Drug Trafficking Lawyer to Represent Your Case
If you are facing drug trafficking charges in Oklahoma, OK, then you need a law firm that has extensive experience in both state and federal courts. At Cannon & Associates, our team can guide you through the entire process. Following a free consultation, we will assign the best lawyer for your individual case, and they will work tirelessly to protect your freedom.
The attorney-client relationship is of the utmost importance to us, and you can speak with us freely, without the fear of repercussions. Speaking with your legal team open and honestly, gives them the best chance at developing an effective defense. Having a skilled attorney by your side could mean the difference between being charged with drug trafficking, or walking free. We have represented numerous clients in Oklahoma City facing drug trafficking charges and will be prepared to fight your case in state or federal court. We will explore all of your options and come up with the best possible defense.
FAQ
How can a drug trafficking charge be dismissed?
Your best chance of having a drug trafficking charge dismissed is to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney who will consider the individual details of your case to develop an aggressive defense in federal court. Remember, the prosecution has to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, any question of your innocence could result in the dismissal of your case.
What volume of drugs is considered trafficking in Oklahoma City?
The amount of drugs considered trafficking depends on the drug in question. Furthermore, a mixture of a substance containing an illicit drug can also be used as evidence of drug trafficking. When you contact Cannon & Associates for a free consultation, they will be able to advise you about the details of your case.
How many years can you get for drug trafficking in Oklahoma?
Sentencing for drug crimes in Oklahoma, OX, depends on many factors. In the worst-case scenario, you could be facing life in prison. However, your attorney will work tirelessly to secure a favorable outcome in your case.
What is trafficking in illegal drugs?
Drug trafficking can include the trade, manufacture, cultivation, distribution, and sale of substances that are subject to drug prohibition laws.
What Is the Difference Between Drug Trafficking and Drug Distribution Charges?
What Is Considered Drug Trafficking in Oklahoma
Penalties & Sentencing for Drug Trafficking in Oklahoma
How Can a Drug Trafficking Defense Lawyer Help My Case?
Can My Prior Criminal History Affect My Drug Trafficking Case?
Can I Face Federal Drug Trafficking Charges in Addition to State Charges?
Can I Be Charged With Drug Trafficking if I Didn’t Know the Drugs Were in My Possession?
Can Drug Trafficking Charges Be Dismissed if the Evidence Was Obtained Illegally?
Contact Our Criminal Defense Attorneys Today
If you are facing drug charges in Oklahoma City, OK, then contact Cannon & Associates today for a free consultation. We can offer immediate legal advice if you have just been arrested. You should speak to legal representation before you speak to the police so so give us a call, no matter what situation you find yourself in.
Free Resources from OKC Criminal Defense Attorneys:
Have you or a loved one been arrested in Oklahoma City? Are you concerned about your future following arrest in Oklahoma? Our team of Your Fierce Advocates® at Cannon & Associates is led by Army Veteran, John Cannon and we’re privileged to fight for client’s rights and freedom in Oklahoma criminal defense cases. Please review our other FREE RESOURCES until we can answer your specific Oklahoma criminal defense questions:
Have you been charged with a serious crime? Have you been arrested? Got warrants?! Worried about defending those charges or worried about how you can make them go away? Well it doesn’t have to be that way. Serious steps need to be taken to avoid charges from becoming convictions. If you answered yes to any of these questions, you need a defense lawyer right away. A lawyer can stop the police from contacting you directly. If you want to get this resolved so you can go back to living your life, CALL NOW at (405) 972-8604. We’re available 24 hours a day, and 7 days a week to schedule a Free Case Planning Session to understand your options and rights in an Oklahoma criminal case!
We are committed to doing everything possible to protect your freedom and future. The sooner you call us, the sooner we can start building your defense. Call us now at 405-591-3935.
