The United States is facing a serious opioid epidemic. In recent years, the use of schedule II narcotics such as fentanyl has increased significantly. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is used in the medical field as a painkiller for patients that suffer severe pain from illnesses such as cancer. Fentanyl is similar to morphine, however, it is more potent, which makes it more popular in the illegal drug market. In New Jersey, drug trafficking is a serious criminal offense that carries harsh penalties. If you are convicted of drug trafficking, you will be subject to hefty fines and up to a decade of incarceration. If you have been charged with drug trafficking in fentanyl, it is in your immediate interest to retain the legal services of a skilled Camden County Criminal Defense Attorney who can defend your rights and interests. Continue to follow along to learn about the potential penalties for drug trafficking in fentanyl.
What are the potential penalties for drug trafficking fentanyl in New Jersey?
It is illegal to possess illicit drugs, however, the crime of distributing drugs is punished more severely. In New Jersey, it is unlawful for any person knowingly or purposefully to manufacture, distribute, possess, or have a dangerous substance or controlled substance in their possession with the intent to distribute, dispense, or manufacture. Drug trafficking of Schedule I and II narcotics has harsher penalties than drug trafficking of Schedule V narcotics. When it comes to drug distribution offenses, they are classified according to the type of substance and the amount/weight of the narcotic. For Schedule II drugs such as fentanyl, if you have an amount of less than one-half an ounce you will be charged with a third-degree felony. A third-degree felony is punishable by a fine of up to $75,000 and up to 3- 5 years in prison. If the amount was more than one-half an ounce but less than five ounces, it will be considered a second-degree felony. A second-degree felony is punishable by five to ten years in prison. The most severe charge you can face is a first-degree felony whereby you had more than five ounces of fentanyl. A first-degree felony is punishable by ten to twenty years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000. However, the consequences of trafficking fentanyl will haunt you for the rest of your life.
If you have been charged with drug trafficking, do not navigate this legal process alone. To prevent harsh penalties, you need a determined Camden County criminal defense attorney on your side. Our firm will help you raise all available defenses to seek reduced or dismissed charges. Allow our firm to fight on your behalf today to achieve the best possible outcome.
