Trafficking in Oxycodone (Oxycontin) Lawyers in Orlando, FL

Attorney Guide: Trafficking in Oxycodone (Oxycontin) in Florida

When it comes to criminal charges related to controlled substances like Oxycodone, having a clear understanding of the legal framework is crucial. In the state of Florida, Trafficking in Oxycodone is a serious offense that is defined under section 893.135 of the Florida Statutes. This statute outlines the various actions and circumstances that can lead to such charges.

What Constitutes Trafficking in Oxycodone in Florida?

Trafficking in Oxycodone encompasses a range of activities related to the controlled substance Oxycodone, including:

• Possession: Being found in possession of Oxycodone, especially in significant quantities, can lead to trafficking charges.
• Sale or Purchase: Engaging in the buying or selling of Oxycodone, regardless of the quantity, falls within the scope of this offense.
• Manufacturing: If you are involved in the production or creation of Oxycodone, you could face trafficking charges.
• Delivery: Transporting Oxycodone with the intent to distribute or transfer it to others is considered a violation of this law.
• Importation: Bringing Oxycodone into the state of Florida, particularly in amounts exceeding the specified threshold, constitutes a criminal offense under this statute.

It’s important to note that this law covers not only pure Oxycodone but also any salts derived from it and any mixtures containing Oxycodone. This means that various formulations and combinations of the drug fall under the purview of Trafficking in Oxycodone if they meet the specified criteria.

Understanding what constitutes Trafficking in Oxycodone is the first step in navigating this complex area of the law. The severity of the charges and potential consequences depend on factors such as the quantity of Oxycodone involved, which is detailed in the statute.

The Elements of Trafficking in Oxycodone in Florida

In the eyes of Florida law, the elements that constitute Trafficking in Oxycodone involve:

1. Possession: This includes knowingly having Oxycodone in your control, whether it’s on your person or within your reach and control.
2. Sale or Purchase: If you engage in the exchange of Oxycodone, either by selling or buying it, you could be charged with trafficking.
3. Manufacturing: Being involved in the production or creation of Oxycodone is considered a criminal offense under this statute.
4. Delivery: Transporting Oxycodone with the intent to distribute or transfer it to others falls within the scope of this offense.
5. Importation: Bringing Oxycodone into the state of Florida, especially in quantities exceeding the specified threshold, is a violation of this law.

It’s important to note that this law isn’t limited to the pure form of Oxycodone but also includes any salts derived from it and any mixtures containing Oxycodone. This means that various formulations and combinations of the drug fall under the purview of Trafficking in Oxycodone if they meet the specified criteria.

These elements form the foundation upon which charges of Trafficking in Oxycodone are built. The severity of the charge and the potential consequences depend on factors such as the quantity of Oxycodone involved, which is outlined in the statute.

What are the penalties for Trafficking in Oxycodone in Florida?

Penalties for Trafficking in Oxycodone in Florida

Trafficking in Oxycodone in Florida is classified as a first-degree felony, making it one of the most severe drug-related offenses in the state’s legal system. Those convicted of this crime face significant penalties, which can vary based on the quantity of Oxycodone involved.

First-Degree Felony

Being charged with Trafficking in Oxycodone is a serious matter, as it is classified as a first-degree felony. A conviction for a first-degree felony can result in:

• Imprisonment: Convicts may face a maximum sentence of up to 30 years in prison or probation. This lengthy prison term reflects the gravity of the offense and serves as a deterrent against drug trafficking.

Mandatory Minimum Sentences

In addition to the potential 30-year prison sentence, Florida law imposes mandatory minimum sentences for Trafficking in Oxycodone based on the quantity of the drug involved. These mandatory minimums are set to ensure that individuals convicted of trafficking face a significant period of incarceration. The specific mandatory minimums are as follows:

• At least 7 grams but less than 14 grams: Those found guilty of trafficking in this quantity face a mandatory 3-year prison sentence and a $50,000 fine.
• At least 14 grams but less than 25 grams: If the quantity falls within this range, the mandatory minimum sentence increases to 7 years in prison, accompanied by a $100,000 fine.
• At least 25 grams but less than 100 grams: Trafficking in this range carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and a $500,000 fine.
• At least 100 grams but less than 30 kilograms: Those convicted of trafficking in this substantial quantity face a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years in prison and a $750,000 fine.
• At least 30 kilograms: Trafficking in such a large quantity results in a mandatory life sentence, with no possibility of early release except in exceptional circumstances such as pardon, clemency, or conditional medical release.

It’s important to emphasize that these mandatory minimum sentences are severe and non-negotiable, meaning that judges have limited discretion in sentencing for trafficking convictions.

Understanding the potential penalties for Trafficking in Oxycodone is critical for individuals facing these charges. If you find yourself in such a situation, it is imperative to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can provide guidance and build a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances.

How to Fight a Charge of Trafficking in Oxycodone in Florida

Facing accusations of Trafficking in Oxycodone can be an incredibly daunting and stressful experience. However, it’s essential to recognize that there are defense strategies available to protect your rights and future. Collaborating with experienced defense attorneys, such as those at Leppard Law, can make all the difference in your case. Let’s delve into the key defenses that can be employed:

Actual or Constructive Possession

At the core of many Trafficking in Oxycodone charges lies the question of possession. To secure a conviction, the State must establish that you had either actual possession or constructive possession of the controlled substance.

Actual Possession: This occurs when Oxycodone is found directly on your person, such as in your hand or pocket. However, it’s crucial to remember that mere proximity to the substance is not enough; it must be on your person or immediately within your control.

Constructive Possession: In this scenario, the Oxycodone is located in a place you have control over, such as your vehicle or residence, and you are aware of its presence. Constructive possession cases can be complex, as they require proving both knowledge of the substance and control over the area where it’s found.

Without sufficient evidence demonstrating either form of possession, a Trafficking in Oxycodone charge based on possession can be challenged effectively.

Proving the Amount of the Controlled Substance

Another critical element in a trafficking case is establishing the quantity of the controlled substance involved. The State bears the burden of proving, beyond a reasonable doubt, the specific amount of Oxycodone in question. If they cannot substantiate the required quantity or if there are inconsistencies in their evidence, it can create a potential defense angle.

This defense strategy hinges on scrutinizing the State’s evidence closely. Your defense attorney may challenge the accuracy of their measurements, question the handling of the substance, or raise doubts about the chain of custody, casting reasonable doubt on the quantity of Oxycodone.

Motion to Suppress

A motion to suppress can be a powerful tool when there is evidence that was obtained in violation of your constitutional rights. For instance, if law enforcement conducted an unlawful search of your property or lacked a valid reason to stop you, any evidence gathered as a result might be deemed inadmissible in court.

This defense strategy involves a meticulous review of the circumstances surrounding your arrest. If your attorney can demonstrate that law enforcement acted unlawfully or infringed upon your Fourth Amendment rights, any evidence obtained through such actions can be excluded from the case, significantly weakening the prosecution’s position.

Alibi Defense

An alibi defense involves presenting evidence that you were in a different location when the alleged trafficking activity occurred, rendering it impossible for you to have committed the crime. This defense can be substantiated with witnesses, surveillance footage, phone records, or any other forms of compelling evidence that corroborate your whereabouts at the time of the alleged offense.

Establishing a strong alibi can cast doubt on the prosecution’s case and create reasonable uncertainty about your involvement in the alleged trafficking.

Other Potential Defenses

Leppard Law employs a range of additional defense strategies to challenge the State’s case effectively. These include:

• Motioning to discard evidence that was unlawfully obtained. If any evidence was obtained through violations of your rights, it can be excluded from the case.
• Demonstrating a lack of evidence supporting the charge. Your attorney may argue that the prosecution’s evidence is insufficient to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Presenting evidence that contradicts the prosecution’s claims. Your defense team can use various means to challenge the accuracy or credibility of the prosecution’s evidence and witnesses.
• Challenging the credibility of witnesses brought forward by the prosecution. If any of the witnesses have credibility issues or biases, your attorney may use this to discredit their testimony.

In the intricate landscape of criminal law, having a dedicated and experienced attorney from Leppard Law can be your most formidable line of defense. From contesting the evidence presented by the state to crafting compelling counter-arguments, our legal team is here to provide unwavering support and guidance at every stage of your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What distinguishes Oxycodone trafficking from simple possession?

Simple possession involves having a small amount of the drug meant for personal use, without the intent to distribute or sell. Trafficking, on the other hand, typically involves larger quantities and implies an intent to distribute or sell. The penalties for trafficking are significantly more severe than for simple possession.

2. Are there any diversion programs available for first-time Oxycodone trafficking offenders in Florida?

Florida does offer some diversion programs for drug offenses, but the eligibility often depends on the specific details of the charge, the defendant’s prior criminal history, and other factors. For trafficking charges, especially those involving significant quantities, diversion may not be an option. However, every case is unique, and it’s crucial to consult with a knowledgeable attorney to explore all potential avenues of defense and alternative sentencing.

3. If I’m charged with Oxycodone trafficking but the drugs belonged to someone else, can I still be convicted?

Possession can be either actual or constructive. Even if the drugs belong to someone else, if they were found in a location you have control over (like your vehicle or home), and if it can be proven that you were aware of their presence, you can still be charged with constructive possession. However, having an experienced attorney can help challenge such allegations effectively.

4. How does the quantity of Oxycodone found impact the potential sentence in a trafficking case?

The quantity is pivotal. Florida’s drug trafficking statutes set forth different mandatory minimum sentences based on the amount of the drug found. For instance, trafficking 7 grams but less than 14 grams has a mandatory minimum sentence of 3 years in prison, whereas trafficking 30 kilograms or more can lead to a life sentence.

5. Is it possible to reduce a trafficking charge to a lesser offense?

Yes, in some cases. Depending on the evidence, circumstances of the arrest, and potential legal defenses, it may be possible to negotiate with the prosecution to reduce a trafficking charge to a lesser offense, like possession. This would typically involve proving that there was no intent to distribute the drugs or challenging the validity of the evidence against the accused.

Why Trust Leppard Law?

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• 10.0 Rating in Avvo – (2017-present)
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