Help from a Saint Lucie Drug Trafficking Attorney
After a search of their residence based on a warrant, a 39-year old Stuart man and his 36-year old girlfriend were taken into custody by local authorities last week and charged with one count each of trafficking methamphetamine. They were accused of being in possession of 20.6 grams of the substance. Along with the methamphetamine charge, the man was also arrested for possession of 18.1 grams of anabolic steroids and possession of a narcotic painkiller. Both of the people were transported to the Martin County Jail. The man’s bond was set at $110,000, while the woman’s bond was set at $100,000.
When police find a person to be in possession of methamphetamine, he or she can be charged in one of three ways. Those would be for possession of the substance, for the sale, purchase and delivery of it or for trafficking it. As per Florida Statute 893.13(1)(a)(1), simple possession of methamphetamine is a third degree felony that is punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine not to exceed $5,000. The sale, purchase or delivery of the substance is a second degree felony that is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. A trafficking charge is a felony of the first degree. A conviction can result in up to 30 years in prison and a significant fine, depending on the weight of the substance.
According to Saint Lucie criminal defense attorney Jonathan Jay Kirchner, there is a minimum mandatory prison sentence in Florida for trafficking in methamphetamine. If the conviction involves 14 to 27.9 grams, the minimum sentence is three years in prison and a fine of $50,000. A conviction for between 28 and 199.9 grams carries a minimum prison sentence of seven years and a fine of $100,000. If a person is found to be in possession of 200 grams or more of the substance, he or she faces a minimum of 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. Capital felony charges might be sought if an individual is convicted of possession, the manufacture or importation of 400 grams of methamphetamine involving a death.
Do You Need a Saint Lucie Drug Trafficking Attorney?
Saint Lucie drug trafficking attorney Jonathan Jay Kirchner has been certified by the Florida Supreme Court as a criminal trial lawyer for more than 25 years. After an arrest, don’t give police a statement or confession. Exercise your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney. Contact Jonathan Jay Kirchner right away at 772-489-8501.
