If you are like a lot of people in Florida, you might not fully understand what the term “drug trafficking” could refer to. Some people may assume that trafficking is simply another word for selling a drug. However, the legal definition of trafficking includes more than just the alleged sale of a substance.
When it comes to allegations of trafficking cannabis, the Florida Statutes explain that various actions may lead to this type of charge. These actions include not only selling the drug but also manufacturing it, delivering it, importing it into Florida from another location, buying it or even possessing some of the drug. Another element of the action to meet the legal definition is that the person must have knowing engaged in whatever act they are accused of.
A person may be legally charged with a first degree felony count of trafficking in cannabis if more than 299 plants or more than 25 pounds of the substance is involved. The penalties associated with this charge may vary based on the amount of the drug or the number of the plant. Increases in penalties may be seen if the weight exceeds 2,000 pounds or 10,000 pounds. Increased penalties may also result in cases in which the number of plants exceeds 2,000 or 10,000.
This information is not intended to provide legal advice but is instead meant to give residents in Florida an idea of how drug trafficking may be defined under the law and what penalties may be associated with charges of trafficking cannabis in Florida.