What constitutes drug trafficking in South Carolina? According to drug trafficking laws, the sale or distribution of controlled substances is illegal in South Carolina. It is a drug charge felony under state law, regardless of the amount involved. Drug trafficking is a serious crime in South Carolina and carries harsh penalties. According to state law, drug trafficking is defined as the sale, delivery, or possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute.
To be convicted of a drug crimes offense, prosecutors must prove that the accused knowingly sold or distributed drugs. For more information, contact Touma Law Group's drug trafficking defense attorneys.
What are the Amounts of Drugs for Charges to Be Consider Drug Trafficking?
In South Carolina, the amount of drugs that constitute drug trafficking can vary widely depending on the type of illegal substance involved. If caught with drugs by a law enforcement officer depending on the amount you can be charged with simple possession or constructive possession.
Marijuana
Marijuana is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in South Carolina. Criminal charges for marijuana trafficking can be brought against those who possess, sell, or distribute it.
The state's laws prohibit the possession of more than one ounce of marijuana for personal use or any quantity exceeding 28 grams. Trafficking in marijuana charges are typically filed when an individual possesses over 10 pounds of marijuana or has more than 10 marijuana plants.
Cocaine
Cocaine trafficking charges are typically considered a felony offense and are met with significant penalties in the state. In the case of cocaine, drug distribution, and trafficking charges can be applied if an individual possesses 28/100 grams of the drug or any mixture with a combined weight exceeding 28 grams.
Heroin
Heroin is frequently trafficked in the state. Trafficking heroin involves selling or distributing large quantities of the drug for financial gain and possessing a certain amount to sell it. There are severe penalties for trafficking heroin with 25/30 years in prison and fines of up to $25,000.
Trafficking charges apply when an individual possesses over 4 grams of heroin or any drug weight mixture weighing more than 4 grams.
Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine is a stimulant drug and is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in South Carolina. Penalties for drug trafficking involving methamphetamine are severe.
Possessing more than 28 grams of methamphetamine or any mixture with a total weight exceeding 28 grams is illegal. A drug conviction for drug trafficking methamphetamine can result in a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison and fines of up to $25,000.
Potential Penalties for Drug Trafficking in Columbia, South Carolina
Drug trafficking in South Carolina is the illegal sale, distribution, or transport of drugs. It involves individuals or groups and includes activities like drug cultivation, manufacturing, smuggling, and intent to sell. Penalties for drug trafficking vary based on the amount and type of drugs.
In Columbia, South Carolina, charges for drug trafficking carry jail time and fines. Depending on the quantity of drugs, offenders can face up to 25 years in prison and fines up to $25,000. Charges of drug trafficking can also result in loss of job opportunities and restrictions on licenses and permits.
Jail Time
Drug trafficking in South Carolina is a serious offense with harsh penalties. It involves possessing or distributing drugs to sell. The punishment varies based on the type and amount of drugs involved.
Offenders can be sentenced to jail for five years to life imprisonment. For instance, penalties for cocaine trafficking of 28 grams or more of cocaine-based substances, could result in imprisonment of up to 25 years. Possession of 4 grams or more of heroin carries a potential 25-year sentence.
Fines and Fees
Drug trafficking in South Carolina is a serious crime with severe consequences. It involves selling, delivering, or possessing controlled substances with the intent to distribute. This applies to both illegal and prescription drugs.
The punishment for a drug trafficking offense varies depending on the type and quantity of the substance. First-time offenders may receive a maximum prison sentence of 15 years and a fine of up to $25,000. They may also be responsible for paying restitution, court costs, and other fees.
Mandatory Minimum Sentences for Certain Amounts of Drugs Carried or Sold
In South Carolina, drug trafficking is when someone makes, sells, delivers, or distributes illegal drugs. If convicted, there are mandatory minimum sentences based on the amount of drugs involved.
Criminal penalties depend on the weight of the drugs. For example, having over 28 grams of meth or any mixture over 28 grams can lead to a minimum of five years in prison. Selling over 500 grams of cocaine means a minimum of 15 years in prison.
Speak to a Skilled Columbia Drug Defense Lawyer Today
Drug trafficking is a serious crime in South Carolina. Punishments are severe. It involves the transfer, sale, and distribution of illegal drugs. Depending on the amount and type of drugs, charges can result in long prison sentences and hefty fines.
In South Carolina, possessing more than 400 grams of cocaine or any controlled substance with intent to distribute is a felony. The penalty can be a minimum of 25 years in prison. If facing drug trafficking charges, contact a Columbia criminal defense lawyer immediately.
At Touma Law Group, our drug crimes defense lawyers understand the importance of defending your rights. We will fight aggressively for the best outcome in your case. Contact us today for a free consultation