Drug conspiracy is a criminal charge that may be brought against an individual in connection with drug trafficking or some other drug-related crime. A conviction for conspiracy may result in fines, imprisonment, or both.
This article explores what it means to conspire with another person to commit a crime, as well as the potential consequences of this charge. Here is what you need to know about drug conspiracy charges and how to defend against them.
What are Federal Drug Conspiracy Charges?
Federal drug conspiracy charges are brought against two or more people who break a federal drug law. The charge is based on the intent to distribute a controlled substance, an illegal drug. Distribution includes selling, transporting, or delivering the drug. A drug conspiracy charge is a serious offense with harsh penalties. A criminal defense attorney can help you if you’ve been charged with a federal drug conspiracy.
What Does It Mean to be Charged With Criminal Conspiracy?
If you are charged with criminal conspiracy, it means that the government believes you have agreed with one or more other people to commit a crime. Conspiracy laws are federal laws that make it a crime to agree to commit certain offenses. If you are convicted of conspiracy in federal court, you may be sentenced to prison, even if you never committed the underlying offense. For example, if you agree to help someone distribute drugs, you can be charged and convicted of conspiracy, even if the drug deal never happens.
Types of Drug Conspiracies Under the Law
The type of drug involved in the conspiracy determines the drug conspiracy charge. If the conspiracy involves a controlled substance, it is a felony offense. If the conspiracy involves an illegal drug, it is a misdemeanor offense. However, your past criminal history will also factor into the severity and type of drug conspiracy you’re convicted with. Drug dealers often face drug conspiracy charges when they are caught selling drugs.
Penalties for Drug Conspiracy Charges
The penalties for a drug conspiracy charge can be quite severe under 21 U.S.C. § 846. If you are convicted of participating in a drug conspiracy, you may be subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison. Additionally, the penalties for a drug conspiracy charge can include a fine of up to $10,000,000.
Typical Sentences for Drug Conspiracy Convictions
The typical sentences for drug conspiracy charges vary depending on the type of drug involved and the other factors of the case. However, those convicted of a drug conspiracy crime can expect to receive a prison sentence, with some cases involving mandatory minimums. Those charged with a drug conspiracy charge may also be fined up to $10 million.
What are the Defenses Against Drug Conspiracy Charges?
If you are charged with a drug conspiracy, there are several defenses that your federal criminal defense attorney can use. One is that the evidence that the federal government has against you is not enough to prove that you were part of a criminal conspiracy to convict you of drug conspiracy charges. The other is that the prosecutors were not able to get enough evidence against you by using certain types of law enforcement techniques, such as undercover investigations.
Another defense against drug conspiracy charges is that you did not have the Intent to commit a crime. If you did not intend to commit a crime, then you cannot be convicted of conspiracy to commit that crime.
Finally, if you can show that you withdrew from the drug conspiracy before any crimes were actually committed, you might be able to avoid conviction.
If you are facing drug conspiracy charges, it is important to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney who will thoroughly investigate the allegations against you and build a strong defense on your behalf. The sooner you contact an attorney, the better. An experienced criminal defense attorney will be able to advise you on your rights and help you protect your freedom.
Contact a Savannah Criminal Defense Attorney Today
It’s essential to hire an attorney as quickly as possible if you are charged with drug conspiracy. An experienced federal criminal defense attorney may be able to find viable defenses to the charges and ensure that you receive a fair trial.
Remember, your federal criminal defense attorney has the skills and resources to help protect your constitutional rights. Contact Phillips Carson Phillips to schedule a consultation by calling (912) 232-0081 or using our online contact form.