Penalties for Fentanyl Trafficking in Florida

Fentanyl is an opioid drug that has caused a lot of harm to people across Florida and nationwide. It was originally created as a powerful prescription pain reliever, but it has now made its way into illegal markets and poses a serious danger to public health and safety. In Florida, police and legal authorities take drug offenses very seriously and enforce some of the harshest penalties in the country for fentanyl trafficking.

 

What Is Fentanyl Trafficking?

Trafficking refers to the act of illegally transporting, selling, or distributing any kind of drug. Under state law, fentanyl trafficking charges are based on the amount in a person’s possession, not necessarily whether they intend to sell it. Even a relatively small amount can lead to serious legal trouble.

Because it’s such a dangerous substance, Florida has put strict penalties in place to try to deter fentanyl trafficking. Given its potency, even small doses can be fatal, and what some people consider an insignificant amount is all it takes to meet the legal threshold for trafficking.

Penalties for Fentanyl Trafficking by Weight

In Florida, the penalties for fentanyl trafficking are severe and determined by the amount of the drug involved in the case. If you’re facing charges, it’s important to understand these amounts, as the consequences can have a lifelong impact.

4 to 14 Grams

Anyone found to have between four and 14 grams of fentanyl faces a mandatory minimum sentence of three years in prison and a fine of $50,000. This might sound manageable compared to longer sentences and steeper fines, but even a few years behind bars can prove devastating to your life, relationships, and career.

14 to 28 Grams

When a person is found with between 14 and 28 grams of the drug, the punishment increases sharply. The law mandates a minimum of 15 years in prison and a $100,000 fine. The increase is meant to dissuade larger trafficking operations. For those convicted, there’s no possibility of parole.

28 Grams or More

The most severe consequences for fentanyl trafficking apply to cases where a person has 28 grams or more of the drug. These people could face at least 25 years in jail and a $500,000 fine. This is on par with some of the most serious felonies in the state, and it shows how seriously the law treats large-scale trafficking operations.

Facing fentanyl trafficking charges can change your life forever. Call us today at 813-281-2897 for help understanding your options and legal rights.

Florida lawmakers put these punishments in place to try to curb the devastating effects of the opioid crisis. Fentanyl is much stronger than other drugs, and that makes it highly dangerous, even in tiny amounts. A large number of overdose deaths can be linked to fentanyl, either directly or by accidental exposure through other substances. Stringent trafficking laws aim to deter distribution and reduce the availability of this lethal drug.

Potential Defenses Against Trafficking Charges

Although the state has severe penalties for fentanyl trafficking, facing such charges doesn’t mean you don’t have various defense options at your disposal. A skilled drug crime attorney can help you figure out what approach works best for your case, and it may include:

• Lack of Knowledge: In some cases, a person might not be aware that they were in possession of fentanyl. This defense can be complicated, but it can show that the defendant didn’t know that what they possessed was fentanyl.
• Questioning the Amount: Trafficking charges hinge on the quantity of the drug involved. If your lawyer can prove that the amount was incorrectly measured or was not above the legal threshold, it could lead to a reduction of the charges against you.
• Unlawful Search and Seizure: If law enforcement violated your rights during the search, any evidence they collected could be thrown out of court. This can be a powerful defense since excluding critical evidence can lead to the charges’ being dropped completely.

Every case is unique, and your defense will depend on the specifics of your situation. By consulting with a qualified attorney, you’ll have a better chance of figuring out the best defense strategies that could get your charges reduced or even dismissed.

Long-Term Consequences of a Conviction

A conviction for fentanyl trafficking comes with a lot more than jail time and fines. It also brings far-reaching impacts that can follow you for years to come. People convicted of drug trafficking face challenges with:

• Employment: Most companies do background checks, and a trafficking conviction makes it more likely that they’ll pass you over as a potential candidate for the job.
• Housing and Financing: A conviction can limit your eligibility for housing and loans, which makes it tougher to get stable living arrangements and financial assistance.
• Family and Relationships: The stigma of a felony conviction and time in prison can take a toll on relationships and friendships, adding an emotional burden to your situation.

Even after serving time, a trafficking conviction can have an impact on nearly every aspect of your life. Strong legal counsel is vital to fighting for your future.

Options Beyond Prison

While a conviction for trafficking fentanyl can carry harsh penalties, some defendants might be able to take part in alternative sentencing programs, especially if it’s a first offense or they’re struggling with substance abuse. Florida offers drug court programs that focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment, where the goal is to help people get the treatment they need and potentially avoid the full weight of a trafficking conviction.

If you’re not eligible for such programs, you need a legal team who will work tirelessly to fight for a reduction in your sentence where possible. We’re committed to pursuing every available option to lessen the impact of a conviction on your life.

Protect Your Future Against Fentanyl Trafficking Charges

If you’ve been charged with fentanyl trafficking in the Tampa area, don’t wait. Contact Taracks & Associates today at 813-281-2897 for a free case review. We’ll help you understand your options and take the first steps toward defending your future.