This crime is also called Drug Trafficking. In some states, "trafficking" is considered a more serious offense that is charged when higher quantities of drugs or more severely restricted drugs are involved.
Federal and state drug distribution/trafficking laws vary based on the jurisdiction and circumstances. Punishments typically vary according to drug type, amount, and geographic area of distribution, as well as whether minors were targeted or were sold the drugs.
Ramifications of Drug Trafficking Charges
Since the advent of the "war on drugs" in the 1980's, the government at all levels has aggressively pursued drug convictions. Drug crimes are considered "gateway crimes" that can eventually lead to other types of crimes including white collar, violent and sexual crimes. Big drug busts mean big publicity for prosecutors and politicians.
Citizens who may be in involved in the possession or distribution of drugs are favorite targets of prosecutors because drug convictions tend to be easier to get than other types of crimes. The prevalence of drug use leads many people to assume drug charges are minor, "victimless" crimes.
On the contrary, drug crimes have among the most aggressive sentencing guidelines in the criminal justice system. Even minor possession charges can result in a criminal record, loss of your drivers' license and difficulty in keeping or getting jobs. Convictions on possession of controlled substances or on selling or trafficking drugs can result in long prison times with mandatory sentencing guidelines. This is why drug charges must be fought with extremely skilled and vigorous defense.








