An arrest for possessing or transporting a drug with intent to sell can result in Florida drug trafficking charges. The state imposes different penalties for this type of conviction based on the specific substance, the person’s criminal history, the amount of the substance and other circumstances.
Review the possible penalties for drug trafficking before facing a court date for this offense.
Cocaine trafficking
Possession or transport of more than 28 grams of cocaine is a first-degree felony in Florida. A convicted person will receive:
- Mandatory minimum three-year prison sentence and a fine of $50,000 for 28 to 200 g
- Mandatory minimum seven-year prison sentence and a fine of $100,000 for 200 to 400 g
- Mandatory minimum 15-year prison sentence and a fine of $250,000 for 400 g to 150 kilograms
Heroin and opioid trafficking
For other dangerous substances, the trafficking threshold starts at 4 g. The penalties below apply to heroin, hallucinogens, methamphetamine, amphetamine, and prescription opioids, including fentanyl and morphine:
- Mandatory minimum three-year prison sentence and a fine of $50,000 for 4 to 14 g
- Mandatory minimum seven-year prison sentence and a fine of $100,000 for 14 to 28 g
- Mandatory minimum 25-year prison sentence and a fine of $500,000 for 28 g to 38 kg
Some individuals may qualify for drug court programs in Florida, which include addiction treatment, probation, court appearances, support groups and therapy. Successful completion of the diversion program requirements often results in dismissal or downgrade of charges for individuals struggling with substance use disorder.
