Columbia Drug Trafficking
Drug trafficking is a very serious crime on both the state and federal levels. Jack B. Swerling has extensive drug crime defense experience in Columbia. He has the knowledge and skill to help protect your rights when facing these serious charges.
South Carolina Drug Trafficking
Drug trafficking generally includes the crime of possession and intent to distribute a large amount of a controlled substance. It is the most severe drug crime and carries severe penalties. The amount required to qualify as trafficking varies depending on the controlled substance in question:
- Ten pounds of more of marijuana
- Ten grams or more of cocaine or any cocaine mixture
- Four grams or more of heroin, morphine, or other opiate
- 15 grams or more of methaqualone
- 100 tablets or more of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD)
- 100 tablets or more of MDMA or ecstasy
- One gram or more of flunitrazepam
- 50 milliliters or more of gamma hydroxybutyric acid
Unlawful possession of a lesser amount is still a serious crime but does not amount to drug trafficking. If you live in Columbia or elsewhere in South Carolina and are under investigation or facing charges for drug trafficking or possession, you need to contact a drug crime attorney immediately. Your freedom may be at stake.
Federal Drug Charges
Federal law also defines drug violations as the manufacture, transport, or possession with intent to distribute of a large amount of a controlled substance. Under federal law, the weight of drugs is significant in computing advisory guidelines.
Possession of smaller amounts of these controlled substances is still illegal under federal law and can carry a sentence of up to five years in federal prison. Trafficking, however, carries mandatory minimum sentences and fines as high as $2 million.
If you are facing drug trafficking charges or learn you are the subject of a drug trafficking investigation, call our law firm 24 hours a day at 888-363-4981. Our answering service can direct you to Jack Swerling. You may also contact Jack Swerling South Carolina Criminal Defense Attorney today.
