Seek Experienced Representation from Our Committed Legal Team
Anti-drug trafficking efforts are significantly intensified in Texas, where its bordering neighbor country, Mexico, has been the main source for importation and delivery for many illegal substances. According to the Justice Department, around $18 billion to $39 billion is made each year from drug sales in the United States by the Mexican and Colombian cartels. Cartels also operated in 1,286 U.S. cities in 2009 to 2010, five times more than the total reported in 2008.
Since the nation’s anti-drug trafficking agenda has been a top priority for federal law enforcement agencies, convictions and wrongful arrests are quite common and the associated punishments are severely harsh and unforgiving. Shane Phelps Law has decades of legal experience to properly protect your rights and your reputation.
Contact our firm today for your free consultation.
Is Drug Trafficking a Felony in Texas?
In the state of Texas, drug trafficking is categorized as a felony offense. Anyone who has been convicted of partaking in or aiding in the sale, distribution, or manufacturing of illegal drugs could face substantial fines and lengthy jail sentences. The severity of punishment depends on the amount and specific type of drugs that were involved in the crime. Potential penalties may range from probation to life in prison for individuals convicted of drug trafficking felonies.
Common Defense Strategies Against Drug Trafficking
If you have been arrested or charged with drug trafficking in Texas, you must take precautionary steps because your behavior subsequently affects the outcome of your case. It’s imperative you do not speak with the police prior to consulting with an experienced criminal defense attorney. In most drug trafficking cases, a successful defense comes from exploring and scrutinizing the actions of the police.
Defenses for arrests associated with controlled substances are the following:
- The police did not have a legal cause to stop your vehicle or search you and your vehicle
- The controlled substances were not in your possession
- The controlled substances belonged to someone else
- The controlled substance has been approved or has been exempt for investigational purposes under the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act.
- Entrapment due to the involvement of a confidential informant or undercover agent
Do not hesitate to contact our Bryan & College Station drug defense lawyers for a free case evaluation today.