Can You Be Charged with Conspiracy for Drug Crimes?

In an effort to remove drug dealers from the streets, the federal government imposes severe punishment on individuals found committing drug conspiracy. Convicted individuals may have to spend up to 40 years in federal prison. 

A drug conspiracy is an agreement between two or more individuals to commit a drug crime. Conspiracy cases are easily lost since prosecutors only have to justify that there was a plan to break a federal drug law. 

If you are facing a drug conspiracy charge, you might be fighting a legal battle that can affect your life and freedom. Your best defense against a drug conspiracy charge is to work with an experienced West Palm Beach drug crimes conspiracy attorney.

Types of Drug Conspiracy Offenses

Although the definition of drug conspiracy is generally broad, it can be classified into four categories:

• Manufacturing controlled substances- This offense involves any activity that entails growing, producing, processing, extracting, or preparing an illegal drug.
• Importing a controlled substance- This offense involves bringing illegal drugs into the country by compromising and lying to U.S. customs authorities.
• Distribution of a controlled substance- The offense involves delivering illegal substances to someone else. The prosecutor does not have to prove that there was an exchange of money to establish a solid case.
• Possessing illegal drugs with intent to distribute- This offense involves the prosecutor having to prove that you had the intention to distribute the substance in this type of case. Previous drug sales and items like baggies or scales can be used as evidence to prove that you had an intention to distribute the substance.

Penalties Related to Drug Conspiracy

The punishment for drug conspiracy is determined by the type and amount of illegal substance involved. For instance, an offender with 100g of heroin will have to serve a minimum of 5 years in prison and a maximum sentence of 40 years. A case involving more than 100kg can attract minimum sentencing of 10 years in federal prison and up to 40 years maximum sentencing.

A 500g cocaine conspiracy offender must serve a minimum of 5 years in federal prison, and a 5 kg or more case may attract a minimum of 10 years. A 5g or more of Methamphetamine case attracts mandatory sentencing of 5 years, while 50 g or more will land you in federal prison for at least ten years with a maximum life sentence.

Get in Touch with a West Palm Beach Drug Crimes Conspiracy Attorney

If you are facing a drug conspiracy charge, several defenses can help avoid the penalties stipulated by the federal government. At The Law Offices of Salnick & Fuchs, we will review your case and create a plan to defend your freedom. Call us today at 561-286-8570 or fill out our online contact form to schedule an appointment and let us get to work and your rights.