What You Should Know About Federal Drug Trafficking Charges

 Posted on December 24, 2020 in Federal Crimes

Possessing, selling, or distributing drugs can be a serious offense that carries serious charges, no matter where you live. When you are charged with drug trafficking, however, the sentence and corresponding fines can be even more severe. If you have been charged in federal court with drug trafficking, it is imperative to immediately speak with a legal professional. The longer you wait to understand the charges you are facing and what options you have, the more difficult it may be to build a proper case to mitigate the effects of the charges.

The first step in any criminal case is to understand the type of charge and exactly what it means. The differences between drug trafficking and distributing are many, but the basic difference is that a drug trafficking charge will likely be a federal charge while a possession or simple distribution charge most often will be handled at the state level. Federal charges generally carry longer sentences and can have a more severe effect on a person’s long-term record.

The International Issue of Drug Trafficking

The United Nations describes drug trafficking as a global problem. It is an illicit trade involving the manufacture and distribution of illegal substances across countries and continents. One of the most complex drug trafficking trade operations involves the manufacture and distribution of heroin. The abuse of heroin and other opioids has become such a problem that American health officials have started referring to it as an epidemic. The vast majority of the world’s heroin comes from Afghanistan, estimated at 380 tons annually. Another 50 tons come from the nations of Myanmar and Laos.

Often, a drug trafficking operation will be considered as such because it is part of a larger conspiracy or organization, such as one controlled by a gang or organized crime syndicate. A drug trafficking charge includes any point of the operation, not just the manufacture or sale of drugs. If you move the substance from one location to another—knowingly or not—you may be subject to a drug trafficking charge. This is how innocent people sometimes end up facing federal charges that can have serious effects on the rest of their lives.

 Contact a Chicago Federal Drug Crimes Lawyer

If you or someone you know is facing a drug trafficking charge, the most important step is to seek legal counsel. At the Law Offices of Hal M. Garfinkel, we are equipped to provide the guidance and representation you need. Call 312-629-0669 for a free consultation with an experienced Illinois federal criminal defense attorney at our firm today.

Sources:

https://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/drug-trafficking/

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