Can I Face Federal Drug Trafficking Charges For Transporting Drugs Across State Lines?

 Posted on April 20, 2022 in Drug Crimes

Drug laws have changed dramatically throughout the last few decades. More and more states have legalized medicinal and recreational marijuana. Some states are even legalizing psilocybin mushrooms. However, there are still multiple state and federal laws regulating drug possession, manufacture, and sale. Violating federal drug laws can lead to significant criminal penalties, including years behind bars.

Moving Drugs Across State Lines Can Lead to Federal Charges

Drug crimes vary dramatically in terms of punishments and prison sentences. The amount of the substance and the type of substance determine the severity of drug possession charges. Manufacturing or cultivating drugs is usually penalized more harshly than simple possession. Transporting drugs may also be punished severely, especially if drugs are transported across state lines.

Many people do not realize the significance of their actions when they transport drugs across state lines. This is especially true of substances like cannabis which may be purchased legally in some states. However, even if you purchase cannabis legally in a state like Illinois which has legalized the recreational use of cannabis, you cannot take the drug out of the state. Remember, marijuana is still considered an illegal substance under federal law. Furthermore, it is classified as a Schedule I drug, which means that the penalties associated with a cannabis-related federal drug crime are high.

Transporting marijuana or any other illicit substance across state lines may lead to federal charges for drug trafficking and life-changing criminal penalties.

Criminal Penalties for Drug Trafficking

Criminal penalties for drug trafficking offenses vary. Transporting cocaine, fentanyl, heroin, LSD, methamphetamine, cannabis, or another illicit substance with the intent to sell it can lead to significant prison sentences and heavy fines. If you or a loved one are facing criminal penalties for drug trafficking, contact a criminal defense lawyer for help right away. Do not speak to the police until your attorney is present.

Contact a Chicago Criminal Defense Lawyer 

Federal drug charges are no small matter. If convicted, you could face years or even decades in prison. Skilled Chicago drug crime defense attorney Hal M. Garfinkel has represented criminal defendants for over 20 years. Before practicing criminal defense law, he was a prosecutor, so he is in a unique position to understand and defend against federal drug crimes. Mr. Garfinkel is committed to protecting the rights of the accused and he will work tirelessly on your behalf.

Contact the Law Offices of Hal M. Garfinkel LLC, Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney, to get the legal support and guidance you need. Call 312-629-0669 for a confidential consultation.

Source:

https://www.ussc.gov/topic/drug-trafficking