When arrested for allegedly trafficking drugs, you may think there’s nothing you can do, even if you are innocent. However, this is not the case, as there are possible defense options. Drug trafficking charges are a severe crime that requires a serious Houston drug crimes defense attorney. Keep reading to learn why you need legal representation and why your trafficking charges may be dismissed.
What Is Drug Trafficking?
Drug trafficking is an intense criminal offense charged against those believed to manufacture, transport, or distribute large amounts of substances. As this crime is a federal offense, it will be charged as a felony.
Generally, these substances span all different schedules, or classifications. Typically, the following drugs can be involved in trafficking:
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Opioids
- Heroin
- Methamphetamines
- Xanax
- Steroids
- Ketamine
- Adderall
While these are not the only drugs one may face a trafficking charge for, they are some of the most common substances involved in this crime. Similarly, different drugs warrant different severity for penalties. Though they are all considered a felony, someone charged with trafficking three points of marijuana will likely face a lighter sentence than someone with two tons of heroin in their basement.
Are There Any Possible Defense Options?
Despite the “cut-and-dry” nature of this charge, you may be surprised to learn that there are several possible defenses you can use to fight these charges.
One of the most common ways to beat a trafficking charge is if the officers on the scene did not obtain a proper warrant or have probable to search your vehicle or home. This means they violated the Fourth Amendment, which protects Americans from the unlawful search and seizure of their personal property and belongings.
You may also be able to have a case dismissed if you were coerced by an undercover police officer. This is known as entrapment, as the undercover cop was able to persuade you to commit a crime you otherwise would not have committed.
Another possible defense is that there may not have been the correct chain of custody for the evidence collected against you. When this chain is broken, the evidence included may be suppressed or dismissed as inadmissible. If the evidence against you was mishandled, tampered with, or missing, you might be able to evade charges.
What Should I Do if I’m Facing These Charges?
If arrested on suspicion of drug trafficking, the most important thing you must do is invoke your right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be held against you in court, so refrain from answering questions or speaking with the police. Even if you are innocent, trying to prove that you did nothing wrong may end up incriminating you further.
The next most important thing you can do is contact an experienced criminal attorney from the Gonzalez Law Group. Our dedicated legal team can help you navigate these serious charges, and we will do everything possible to help you achieve the best outcome for your circumstances.
