In South Florida, there are statutes that define controlled and non-controlled substances, as well as statues that define the amount of a particular drug that is needed for a criminal charge to take place. After the “War on Drugs” in 1980, the number of cases involving drug trafficking has increased tremendously. This is true not only for Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach, but also for other regions in South Florida. Punishment became strict towards people involved in drug trafficking, minimum sentences were created, and the number of arrests doubled.
The Florida statutes on drug trafficking stipulates different substance categories as well as the amount, which differs for each different drug. The most common drug trafficking cases involve marihuana, cocaine, and methamphetamine, among others.
When there was a weapon involved during the drug related offense, this raises the charge to what the Florida statute defines as armed drug trafficking. When this is the case, the minimum sentencing guidelines are enhanced.
If you, or someone you know, has been accused and charged with a drug related crime such as armed drug trafficking, you need to call a criminal defense attorney in South Florida immediately for a free consultation.