Are you looking for an example of a sentence for Federal Drug Trafficking? This following is not our case, but an example of what kind of sentence may be imposed in federal court. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Texas recently announced that a 41-year-old individual from Avinger has been sentenced to over 24 years in federal prison. The sentence comes after the individual was charged with drug trafficking crimes and found guilty of violating drug trafficking laws.
Guilty Plea And Sentencing
The accused pleaded guilty to charges related to the possession with intent to distribute and distribution of methamphetamine. The lengthy sentence was handed down by a Chief U.S. District Judge in July 2023.
Involvement In Drug Trafficking
Details from the court proceedings revealed that the accused was involved in significant drug trafficking offenses. This group was responsible for distributing large amounts of methamphetamine in the local area. Law enforcement intercepted a package in early 2021 that contained nearly 3 kilograms of methamphetamine, intended for the accused. A few months later, the accused was found with an additional 505 grams of methamphetamine and 110 grams of marijuana during a routine traffic stop.
Charges And Indictment
Due to their role as an importer and distributor of methamphetamine, the accused faced serious charges. These charges included the conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and the distribution of substantial quantities of methamphetamine. A federal grand jury formally indicted the individual in June 2022.
Investigation And Prosecution
Several law enforcement agencies were involved in the investigation leading up to the arrest and sentencing. These included the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Texas Department of Public Safety-Criminal Investigations Division, a local county Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol. The prosecution was led by an Assistant U.S. Attorney.
Possession With Intent To Distribute And Distribution Offenses
If you are potentially facing a drug trafficking charge, it’s vital to understand your rights and the potential outcomes. A drug trafficking lawyer can provide valuable guidance and support. Below, we’ll explore the statute 21 U.S.C. § 841. This statute addresses unlawful acts related to possession with intent to distribute and distribution of controlled substances. The penalties for these offenses vary based on the type and quantity of drugs involved.
Unlawful Acts
The statute prohibits any person from knowingly or intentionally engaging in the following acts:
- Manufacture, distribute, or dispense a controlled substance.
- Possess with intent to manufacture, distribute, or dispense a controlled substance.
- Create, distribute, or dispense a counterfeit substance.
Penalties
The penalties for violations depend on the type and quantity of controlled substances involved. The statute sets forth different sentencing guidelines for various drugs and amounts. Here are some key points:
High Penalties For Certain Drug Quantities
For specific drugs and substantial quantities, the penalties are severe. Individuals convicted of possessing or distributing these amounts may face a minimum sentence of 10 years to life imprisonment and hefty fines. If death or serious bodily injury results from the use of such substances, the penalties increase to 20 years to life imprisonment, with even higher fines.
Prior Convictions Enhance Penalties
If the offender has a prior conviction for a serious drug felony or serious violent felony, the penalties become more severe. For instance, a subsequent offense can lead to a mandatory minimum of 15 years to life imprisonment and increased fines.
Lesser Quantities And Lower Penalties
For smaller amounts of controlled substances, the penalties are less severe, ranging from 5 years to 40 years in prison, along with lower fines. Again, prior convictions can enhance these penalties.
Offenses Involving Listed Chemicals And Date Rape Drugs
The law also addresses offenses related to listed chemicals and date rape drugs, imposing fines and imprisonment for illegal possession, distribution, or dispensing of such substances. Penalties vary based on the type and amount of the substance involved.
Internet Sales Of Date Rape Drugs
Federal law also deals with those who knowingly use the Internet to distribute date rape drugs to individuals without their knowledge or to unauthorized purchasers. Violators may face fines and imprisonment of up to 20 years.
Offenses Involving Dispensing Of Controlled Substances By Means Of The Internet
It is also illegal to deliver, distribute, or dispense controlled substances through the Internet, except as authorized by law. It also penalizes aiding or abetting such activities, with fines and imprisonment as consequences.
Fight Federal Methamphetamine Charges With Cofer Luster Law Firm, PC
When federal charges for possession and intent to distribute methamphetamine upend your life, hire a drug trafficking attorney by contacting the dedicated defense team at Cofer Luster Law Firm, PC. Highly rated, with unparalleled trial experience, our drug trafficking attorneys are among the elite few in Tarrant County who go to bat for their clients. We’re loyal, meticulously staying ahead of the latest legal developments. Our methamphetamine possession lawyers have defended a broad range of cases, both state and federal, making us ready for any challenge. Don’t wait – reach out to us at (682) 777-3336 or online to get the criminal defense lawyers you deserve.
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