Trafficking in illegal drugs is a major area of focus for agencies of law enforcement in Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) confiscated more than $11 million in illegal drugs just in the second quarter of 2019. The PSP described their efforts as a “commitment to stopping drug smuggling and dealers” across the state.
Drug Seizures in Pennsylvania for the Second Quarter of 2019
|
Quantity |
Value |
|
|
Cocaine / Crack |
26.35 lbs. |
$566,004 |
|
Heroin |
84 lbs. |
$2,667,617 |
|
Fentanyl |
32.9 lbs. |
$526,400 |
|
Processed Marijuana |
1,385.39 lbs. |
$4,157,700 |
|
Methamphetamines |
38.37 lbs. |
$383,700 |
|
Other Narcotics |
82,337 pills |
$2,058,425 |
Between 2015 and 2018 in Northampton County, there were 315 deaths attributed to drug overdoses. The majority of these fatalities were attributed to fentanyl and heroin. The District Attorney of Northampton County manages a Drug Task Force that is heavily involved in investigating illegal drug-related operations.
Drug Trafficking Sentences and Penalties (§7508)
Marijuana
- In an amount of two lbs. to 10 lbs. or 10 to 21 live plants may result in a one-year sentence and $5,000 fine
- In an amount of 10 lbs. to 50 lbs. or 21 – 51 live plants may result in a three-year sentence and $15,000 fine
- In an amount of more than 50 lbs. or 51 live plants may result in a five-year sentence and $50,000 fine
Cocaine
- In an amount of two to 10 grams may result in a one-year sentence and $5,000 fine
- In an amount of 10 to 100 grams may result in a three-year sentence and $15,000 fine
- In an amount of more than 100 grams may result in a four-year sentence and $25,000 fine
Methamphetamine
- In an amount of five to 10 grams may result in a three-year sentence and $15,000 fine
- In an amount of 10 to 100 grams may result in a four-year sentence and $25,000 fine
- In an amount of more than 100 grams may result in a five-year sentence and $50,000 fine
Heroin
- In an amount of one to five grams may result in a two-year sentence and $5,000 fine
- In an amount of five to 50 grams may result in a three-year sentence and $15,000 fine
- In an amount of more than 50 grams may result in a five-year sentence and $25,000 fine
Drug Trafficking to Minors (§ 6314)
Those who are convicted of possessing with intent to deliver a controlled substance to a minor may face an additional one-year sentence of imprisonment. The penalty may be enhanced to two-years of imprisonment if it is proven that the offense involved “intent to promote the habitual use of the controlled substance.” This two-year sentence may also be imposed if the adult engages the minor to assist with their sales or distribution or if the offense occurs within 1,000 feet of a school or 500 feet from a school bus stop.
Aggressive Criminal Defense Lawyer in Northampton County
Charges such as drug possession with intent to deliver should not be taken lightly. Both state and federal laws now allow for significant penalties to be imposed that can cost you your freedom. Our Criminal Law Team has been defending those facing these and other serious offenses for many years in Pennsylvania and you are encouraged to contact the office at (888) 535-3686 for a consultation.
