Drug Trafficking Definition – A Defense Lawyer Explains

Most states define drug trafficking as selling, transporting, or distributing large quantities of illegal drugs. Trafficking is one of the most high-level drug offenses, and what makes it so serious is the large volume of drugs.

Trafficking is sometimes referred to as drug distribution. Drug trafficking is typically charged as a felony and is punishable by several years, even decades, in state or federal prison.

Note that drug trafficking is a state drug crime as well as a federal crime. As to the latter, federal prosecutors usually bring federal drug charges when:

• the drugs cross state lines,
• the trafficking took place on federal land, or
• the case is part of a large-scale drug trade.

People facing criminal charges involving drug trafficking may contest the charges by asserting a defense. A few common defenses include showing that:

• you did not know that you had an illegal controlled substance,
• you possessed drugs for your personal use, and
• law enforcement found the drugs during an unlawful search and seizure.

1. What is the definition of “drug trafficking”?

Drug trafficking is generally defined as the selling, transporting, or importation of illegal controlled substances.¹

Many states also say that drug trafficking offenses are drug crimes that must involve large quantities of a controlled substance or a large amount of drugs.²

Note also that for a prosecutor to secure a drug trafficking conviction, he/she usually has to prove that you knowingly possessed an illegal drug. In general, you cannot engage in illegal drug trafficking if you:

• are unaware that you had a controlled substance, or
• believed that the substance you had was legal.

Common types of drugs or controlled substances that may give rise to drug trafficking charges include:

• marijuana (or cannabis),
• crack cocaine,
• heroin,
• methamphetamines,
• LSD, and
• opioids or prescription drugs, like oxycodone and fentanyl.

2. How do prosecutors prove drug trafficking cases?

Prosecutors typically start building a drug trafficking case by showing some type of illegal drug possession.

They then face the burden of producing additional evidence to show that you possessed a drug for trafficking purposes (as opposed to personal use).

This evidence may take the form of:

• weight scales,
• baggies,
• large amounts of cash,
• business records showing drug transactions, and
• witness statements from people who were aware of drug trafficking,
• video, surveillance, or undercover officers showing you engaged in trafficking operations.

3. What are the penalties?

Drug trafficking is typically charged as a felony (as opposed to a misdemeanor). The specific penalties for the crime may involve a mandatory sentence of several years in state prison and/or substantial fines.³

However, penalties will often vary depending on the particular facts of a case. Defendants may see enhanced penalties if:

• they have a prior record, especially for drug-related offenses,
• especially large volumes of drugs, weapons or money were involved,
• the operation was part of a large criminal enterprise or RICO,
• a trafficking offense took place along with other crimes (such as money laundering), and/or
• the drugs were being distributed to minors.

4. What if you “traffic” drugs across state lines?

If drug trafficking takes place across state lines, then the case is prosecuted under federal law. Federal prosecutors will also bring federal drug charges if:

• drug trafficking took place on federal land, or
• a drug trafficking operation is part of a large-scale drug trade.

Federal law defines drug trafficking as knowingly manufacturing, dispensing, or distributing:

• controlled substances, or
• counterfeit substances meant to be passed off as controlled substances.⁴

Trafficking also comprises possessing drugs (or fake drugs) with the intent to make, sell, or transport them.⁵

5. Do drug trafficking cases require a criminal defense attorney?

Yes. If you are facing trafficking charges, it is critical that you consult with a criminal defense lawyer.

A state’s drug prohibition laws are often complex. A skilled defense attorney can help break down the applicable laws and help you draft a legal defense that best fits the facts of your case.

Also recall that the penalties for drug trafficking are quite severe. If convicted of the crime, an experienced lawyer can help you minimize the penalties for the offense.

Most attorneys and law firms provide free consultations. A free case evaluation means that you can receive legal advice at no cost.

Further, the communications with an attorney are protected by the attorney-client relationship. This means a lawyer cannot disclose your confidences without first getting your consent.