Miami Man Charged with Drug Trafficking for Pot Dessert Treats

A Coconut Grove man was accused of trafficking marijuana that he baked into homemade Rice Krispie treats. On Thursday, March 5^th, 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:

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.

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.