Police knocking on the door. Flashing red and blue lights in the rearview mirror. Either situation can cause anxiety but when the encounter results in criminal charges — that anxiety can grow into serious concern about your future.
Any criminal charge is daunting, but those involving illegal drugs can come with particularly harsh consequences. Such charges are on the rise as Florida authorities are cracking down on violations involving fentanyl. In a recent example, officers arrested 19 people in the Fort Walton Beach area and are moving forward with trafficking and racketeering charges. This is in addition to the over 400 arrests made for similar charges over the past year.
Why the surge in fentanyl related arrests?
Part of the reason is a new initiative within the state. Governor Ron Desantis recently signed the State Assistance for Fentanyl Eradication (SAFE) program into law. This law aims to combat illegal fentanyl activity by providing funds to aid qualifying investigative efforts such as overtime costs and purchase of additional equipment.
What are the potential penalties?
Drug trafficking conspiracy charges related to fentanyl are serious offenses that can have severe legal consequences. It is important for anyone accused of such crimes understand the legal landscape and take appropriate steps to protect innocence. The process generally includes a multi-faceted approach depending on the charges.
Defendants may face charges for conspiring to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, or other controlled substances. If convicted, penalties can include imprisonment, fines, and forfeiture of assets. Those who face such charges should take steps to challenge the evidence and establish lack of intent. In the tragic situation where someone dies due to fentanyl exposure, those who are present or otherwise involved may also face homicide charges.
Those in this situation are wise to take the matter seriously. You do not have go through the criminal justice process on your own. You can seek legal counsel to represent your interests and better ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.