Difference Between Drug Trafficking and Drug Distribution
Texas state laws are known for severe drug trafficking and distribution punishments. Therefore, if you or a loved one has been charged by law enforcement with drug trafficking or distribution. Contacting an experienced drug defense attorney is a must.
Texas Criminal Defense Group has over 20 years of experience in drug defense and drug crime cases. They have helped clients get their drug charges reduced or even dismissed.
Drug Distribution
Drug distribution is illegal and carries severe legal consequences. The penalties for drug distribution depend on a variety of factors. These factors include the type and quantity of drugs involved.
They also include the defendant’s criminal history. Lastly, they include the specific circumstances of the case.
If a person is caught distributing drugs, they can be charged with a range of criminal offenses, including drug trafficking, drug possession with intent to distribute, or the sale of a controlled substance. These offenses are typically classified as felony offenses in most jurisdictions and can result in imprisonment, fines, probation, and other penalties.
It’s important to note that the consequences of drug distribution can be severe, and can have a long-term impact on a person’s future. A conviction for drug distribution can make it difficult to find employment or housing and can result in the loss of certain rights and privileges, such as the right to vote or own a firearm.
Drug Trafficking
Drug trafficking refers to the illegal trade of controlled substances such as drugs, narcotics, and other illicit substances. It involves the manufacturing, transportation, distribution, and sale of illegal drugs and is typically carried out by organized criminal groups.
Drug trafficking is a global problem that affects many countries and communities around the world. It poses a serious threat to public health and safety, fuels organized crime, and undermines economic and social development.
Drug traffickers often use sophisticated methods to evade detection by law enforcement authorities. This can include smuggling drugs across borders, hiding drugs in cargo shipments. And using encrypted communication channels to coordinate drug deals.
Penalties for Drug Distribution
In Texas, drug distribution is typically classified as a felony offense. The penalties for drug distribution can include:
- Imprisonment: Depending on the type and quantity of drugs involved, drug distribution can result in imprisonment for anywhere from two years to life.
- Fines: Drug distribution can result in significant fines, which can range from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars.
- Probation: In some cases, a defendant may be placed on probation instead of being sent to prison. However, probation typically requires the defendant to comply with a range of conditions, such as regular drug testing, meeting with a probation officer, and completing community service.
- Asset forfeiture: In addition to the criminal penalties, defendants convicted of drug distribution may also be subject to asset forfeiture, which means that the government can seize any property or assets that were obtained through drug trafficking.
It’s important to note that drug distribution penalties can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case. And may be subject to enhancement under certain circumstances. Additionally, a drug distribution conviction can have long-term consequences for a person’s future, such as difficulty finding employment or housing.
Penalties for Drug Trafficking
Drug trafficking in Texas is typically classified as a first-degree felony, which carries a penalty of 5 to 99 years or life imprisonment. As well as a fine of up to $250,000. However, the penalty may be increased depending on the quantity and type of drugs involved. And whether the offense was committed in certain locations such as schools, parks, or public housing.
The following are some examples of the penalties for drug trafficking in Texas:
- Trafficking of less than one gram of a controlled substance: This is a state jail felony, which carries a penalty of 6 months to 2 years in a state jail facility and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Trafficking of 4 to 200 grams of a controlled substance: This is a second-degree felony, which carries a penalty of 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Trafficking of 400 grams or more of a controlled substance: This is a first-degree felony, which carries a penalty of 5 to 99 years or life imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000.
In addition to these penalties, defendants convicted of drug trafficking in Texas may also be subject to asset forfeiture. Which means that the government can seize any property or assets that were obtained through drug trafficking.
Arrested? Don’t Plea, Call Me
If you find yourself or a loved one facing type of drug possession charges in Texas. You will need an experienced defense attorney to protect your legal rights. You need our skilled and seasoned attorneys at Texas Criminal Defense Group.
If you live in Lubbock County, Potter County, Randall County, Dallas County, Denton County, Midland County, Bexar County, or Tarrant County. Contact our attorneys at Texas Criminal Defense Group for a legal review of your case.