Drug Trafficking
Practice Areas
Greenville Drug Trafficking Lawyer
Drug trafficking and sales is a serious drug offense in South Carolina, and convictions carry hefty consequences if convicted. Unfortunately, understanding the full scope of drug trafficking and the subsequent penalties can be challenging. When most people think of drug trafficking, they picture large amounts of illegal drugs being transported by major drug cartels across state lines to sell and distribute them. While this scenario is one example of drug trafficking crime, a much wider range of behaviors may also be included.
If you are convicted of drug trafficking in South Carolina, your criminal record may haunt you forever, impacting many aspects of your life and limiting many of your rights. At AnneMarie Odom Law, we understand the severity of the consequences that come with a drug trafficking charge. You need the best Greenville criminal defense attorney on your side to avoid or otherwise reduce the harsh penalties for drug trafficking in South Carolina. Contact AnneMarie Odom, top Greenville drug charge defense attorney, right away to get straight to work on your defense.
South Carolina Drug Trafficking Laws
The cultivation, manufacturing, distribution, and sale of drugs and unlawful substances are what are referred to as drug trafficking. However, you don’t necessarily have to participate in any of these activities to be charged with drug trafficking in South Carolina, as these charges also apply if you have a large quantity of narcotics or other illegal drugs in your possession. As such, even if you don’t intend to sell the drugs, if you have more than the threshold set by law you are engaging in drug trafficking.
The exact amount required for a drug trafficking charge depends on the drug. If found in possession of more than the threshold weight, anyone who uses or sells unlawful controlled substances of any kind in South Carolina can face this serious offense.
The prosecutor can prove that the crime of drug trafficking was committed by proving that you knowingly sold, created, delivered, bought, or transported illegal drugs or prescription drugs into the state. Another way is to present evidence that you financially helped, aided, or planned the possession of illegal drugs, participated in drug trade, or you were found with the threshold amount for a certain illicit substance in your possession.
What Constitutes Drug Trafficking in South Carolina?
South Carolina’s definition of drug trafficking can be confusing, as state laws do not require that drugs be transported beyond state lines, which is different from the federal crime of drug trafficking. Additionally, proving the accused planned the sale or distribution of large amounts of unlawful controlled substances isn’t a requirement for state law enforcement officials.
Instead, the amount of a particular controlled substance in a defendant’s possession is all that matters when it comes to drug trafficking charges, per South Carolina Code of Laws §44-53-370(e). Anyone in possession of more than the following quantities of an illegal drug may face drug trafficking charges in South Carolina:
- Marijuana – 10 pounds
- Cocaine – 10 grams
- Methamphetamine – 10 grams
- Heroin – 4 grams
Even if you don’t meet the weight threshold to be considered drug trafficking charges, it is still illegal to be in possession of these substances. Though the charge is not as serious as drug trafficking, you may still be met with a drug possession or possession with intent to distribute charges. Call Attorney AnneMarie Odom for help right away if you’re facing drug trafficking or any other drug offense in South Carolina.
When Does Drug Trafficking Become a Federal Charge?
Depending on the circumstances of your arrest and charges, the offense could be charged as a federal crime by the U.S. government. Typically, the federal government steps in when local authorities seize large amounts of drugs, firearms or cash and turn it over to the feds.
The federal government is cracking down on drug trafficking – opioids in particular. This means aggressive prosecutions for drug traffickers and increasingly severe consequences. A conviction for federal drug trafficking cases often carries mandatory minimum prison sentences, and other charges such as conspiracy, money laundering, or RICO violations follow suit. Drug trafficking charges are scary, and you should never face them alone. This is especially true if the charges are brought forth by the federal government. If you are charged with federal drug trafficking, you need the help of an experienced federal criminal defense lawyer like AnneMarie Odom.
Greenville, South Carolina Drug Trafficking Defense Attorney
AnneMarie Odom Law, a criminal defense firm in Greenville, can assist you in preserving your liberty and strengthening your drug trafficking criminal defense strategy. At all levels, we have a solid working relationship with investigators and prosecutors and recognize that with charges like these, getting out in front of the situation and being proactive instead of reactive is key. Knowing that a conviction for drug trafficking in South Carolina may cost you your freedom or your livelihood, we exhaust every defense. Our superior legal experience, proactive defense strategies, and attention to detail enhance the likelihood of a favorable outcome, whether it is a dismissal, charge reduction, acquittal or a reduction in fines.
If you’ve been charged with drug trafficking in South Carolina, you need the best representation possible. To book a consultation with an experienced Greenville criminal defense lawyer, call AnneMarie Odom Law at (864) 775-5833 today.
If you’ve been charged with drug trafficking in South Carolina, don’t wait any longer. Simply fill out our online intake form to request your FREE consultation or call the number below to get in touch with a top Greenville criminal defense attorney ASAP.
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