A Coconut Grove man was accused of trafficking marijuana
that he baked into homemade Rice Krispie treats. On Thursday, March 5th,
prosecutors dropped some of the serious charges against the man, because his
defense attorneys argued that the amount of marijuana in those treats was
minimal compared to the other ingredients.
Because the marijuana weighed less than 25 pounds, the
prosecution no longer had their felony
charge for trafficking. But, this case is a warning sign to those who think
selling edible marijuana products across state lines isn’t serious.
Had the man’s products weighed over 25 pounds, he could
face felony charges and possibly even federal charges. Regardless if marijuana
is legal in neighboring states, the state of Florida has not legalized the use,
sale or distribution of this substance.
Marijuana Trafficking/Distribution Could be a Felony
Any substance that is considered “controlled” cannot be
sold, distributed or moved across state lines. Illegally distributing
marijuana, even in baked goods, is a felony in Florida. But, if you take your
products to another state or bring them to Florida from another state, you
could be charged with a federal crime.
Penalties for Federal Trafficking
If you are arrested for trafficking marijuana across
state lines, even those baked in edible goods, you may be charged with a
federal crime.
These penalties include:
These penalties include:
1. Anywhere from 5 to 20 years minimum in prison or up to 40 years if serious bodily injuries occurred because of the crime for a first offense
2. Fines up to $25 million in some cases.
2. Fines up to $25 million in some cases.
The federal government does not take the trafficking of marijuana lightly. Fines can reach the millions, jail time can range over a decade, and if you are a second-time offender, then you could spend your life in jail just for moving marijuana products across state lines.
Arrested for Drug Trafficking? Hire an Experienced Criminal Attorney
Drug
trafficking can quickly turn from a state offense to a federal one. Even if
you are just charged in the state of Florida, you could still face felony
charges.
Contact the experienced Florida criminal defense team at Sessa Law right away. We offer aggressive drug crime defenses and can help you
not only avoid federal charges, but spending years in prison for what should be
a minor offense. Call us now for a free consultation.
