Drug trafficking and drug distribution crimes are serious offenses under Oklahoma law, Its important to understand they are distinct in their legal definitions and potential penalties. There are very significant elements that account for the each crime and the differences between them. If you receive a charge for one or both of these crimes, we’ll explore the differences between these charges and the range of sentencing associated with each.
Drug Trafficking Charges
Drug trafficking typically involves the transportation, importation, or distribution of illegal drugs across state or national borders. Oklahoma’s state laws govern drug trafficking charges, which can also involve large quantities of any controlled substances. In Oklahoma, the type of drug you possess, including prescription drugs, is crucial in determining whether you’ll receive a charge of drug trafficking. This is because each type of drug requires a minimum quantity in your possession for the state to charge you under the trafficking statute. For Example, if you receive a charge of trafficking marijuana they must find you with 25 or more pounds. 24 pounds and the charge reduce to distributing.
Range of Sentencing for Drug Trafficking:
The range of sentencing for drug trafficking in Oklahoma varies depending on several factors, including the type and quantity of drugs involved, the defendant’s criminal history, and aggravating circumstances. In general, drug trafficking convictions can result in severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines. Additionally, if there exist certain quantities and other factors the government will try to enhance the charge to aggravated trafficking.
For example, trafficking in Schedule I or II controlled substances, such as heroin or cocaine, the court labels it a felony offense in Oklahoma. The penalties for drug trafficking can range from a minimum of four years to life imprisonment, along with fines ranging from $25,000 to $500,000.
Drug Distribution Crimes in Oklahoma
Drug distribution, on the other hand, typically involves the sale, delivery, or transfer of illegal drugs to other individuals. Unlike drug trafficking, drug distribution charges may not necessarily involve the transportation of drugs across borders but focus on the act of distributing controlled substances within a specific jurisdiction. Drug distribution, like drug trafficking, considers the type and quantity of drugs in determining charges. If the police can show evidence that someone is distributing drugs but not trafficking them, they pursue that charge. Indications of distribution look to things like scales to weight the drug or other types of packaging used to distribute it.
Range of Sentencing for Drug Distribution:
Similar to drug trafficking charges, the sentencing for drug distribution offenses in Oklahoma depends on various factors, including the type and quantity of drugs involved and the defendant’s criminal history.
For instance, the distribution of controlled substances such as marijuana, methamphetamine, or prescription drugs without a valid prescription is considered a felony offense in Oklahoma. Penalties for drug distribution convictions can range from one to twenty years in prison, along with fines ranging from $5,000 to $100,000.
Rogers County Drug Lawyers in Your Corner
While both drug trafficking and drug distribution crimes involve the illegal sale or distribution of controlled substances, they differ in scope and legal definitions. Drug trafficking often involves the transportation of drugs across borders or at large quantities and can result in severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences. Drug distribution charges focus on the sale or transfer of drugs within a specific jurisdiction and carry significant consequences under Oklahoma law.
If you or someone you know is facing drug trafficking or drug distribution crimes in Oklahoma, The Rogers County drug crime Attorneys at Kania Law Office can give you the legal edge you need to get past this kind of criminal charge. Our attorney’s sift through the evidence and work to discover each and every possible defense that helps in your case. Call to today and get a Free consultation at 918.379.4872