The phrase "Trafficking in Controlled Substances" brings to mind images of drug cartels flying large amounts of drugs into the country on private planes. And, many people believe that to be charged or convicted of Trafficking in a Controlled Substance, you must be involved in the sale and distribution of the drug. Nothing could be further from the truth. In Nevada, the mere possession of relatively small amounts of street drugs can bring a charge for Trafficking in a Controlled Substance.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Nevada Administrative Codes classify all controlled substances into lists, which are referred to as "Schedules." Schedule I drugs are substances that have a high potential for abuse and for which there are no known medical benefits, including Heroin, MDMA aka "Ecstasy," GHB, Cocaine, Methamphetamine, Marijuana and Mescaline.
In Nevada State Court, possessing as little as four (4) grams of a Schedule I controlled substance (other than marijuana
)
brings a mandatory prison sentence of between one (1) and six (6) years. Possession of between fourteen (14) and twenty-eight (28) grams of a Schedule I controlled substance carries a mandatory prison sentence of between two (2) and fifteen (15) years.
Possession of 28 grams or more of a Schedule I controlled substance
can result in a life sentence. Similar
Federal Drug Crimes also have mandatory prison sentences, many with minimum mandatory sentences of five (5) years.
If you or someone you know is charged with Trafficking in a Controlled Substance and are facing mandatory prison time, don't take a chance. Contact a Las Vegas Drug Crimes Lawyer right away. An experienced attorney can give you a thorough analysis of the case, discuss available defenses and provide you with the best possible options.