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Potential consequences for trafficking marijuana

On Behalf of | Jul 1, 2020 | Drug Violations |

There are a variety of drugs that people use in Pennsylvania. They are people who use meth, prescription pain killers, cocaine and other drugs as well. However, one of the most widely used drugs in marijuana. Some people use it recreationally with friends from time to time, while others may use it every day. The consequences for possessing marijuana can be severe, but the people who are caught selling marijuana throughout the state face much more serious consequences.

The potential consequences depend on the amount that the person possessed at the time of the offense though. If the person had between two and 10 pounds, they could be sentenced to one year in jail and have to pay a $5,000 fine for a first-time offense. The penalties increase to two years in jail and a $10,000 fine if it is a second offense. Those possessing between 10 and 50 pounds, could be sentenced to three years in jail and be fined $15,000 for their first offense and four years in jail and a $30,000 fine for a second offense. If there is over 50 pounds, people could be put in jail for five years and be fined $50,000.

These potential consequences are very serious, but people need to be convicted of the crime before they will face them. People may have defenses available to them in these cases. Many of them start with whether the police had a legal reason to stop and search people. If the police did not follow the proper procedures when they initially stop the person or do not have a valid reason to search their cars or homes, then the evidence of the marijuana may be suppressed and a conviction becomes very unlikely.

Many people in Pennsylvania smoke marijuana. In order for most people to smoke it though they need to buy it from someone else. The people who sell it usually have higher quantities and also could face much more serious consequences. However, everyone is innocent until proven guilty and there may be defenses that could help people avoid the potential consequences. Most of the defenses are fact-specific though and experienced attorneys may be a useful resource.