In 2007, one of the most successful drug raids occurred in Mexico City, Mexico with the cooperation of The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Mexican Police. During the raid over $200 million in U.S. currency was seized along with a pill making machine, luxury vehicles and various weapons, which included guns and semiautomatic firearms.
Officials believed that the money was connected to one of the largest networks for trafficking pseudoephedrine, which is the main ingredient in methamphetamines. Mexican drug trafficking organizations that function on both sides of the border between Mexico and the U.S. are said to be the source of at least 80% of the meth that is consumed in the United States.
While large scale drug raids like the one mentioned above are unprecedented in Ohio, drug trafficking is still a serious felony offense in Ohio that can result in a prison sentence and expensive fines. Under Ohio Rev. Code § 2925.03, a drug trafficking offense that involves methamphetamine is considered aggravated drug trafficking, which is a felony of the fourth degree in Ohio.
Methamphetamines are classified as a schedule II drug under Ohio’s Drug Schedule. A Schedule II drug is considered as having a high potential for abuse and minimal to no medical use in the United States. A felony of the fourth degree is punishable by a prison sentence of 6 to 18 months and/or a fine up to $5,000.
However, there is hope if you are convicted of a felony of the fourth degree for a drug trafficking offense in Ohio. The state of Ohio has a drug court program for offenders who have been convicted of 4th or 5th degree felony drug offenses. This program can be an alternative to jail time if an individual is approved to participate in the program and upon successful completion, could potentially result in a dismissal or reduction of the charges against you. The program focuses on support in the form of treatment programs and options other than jail or prison time.
If you find yourself facing a charge for drug trafficking in Ohio, an experienced criminal defense attorney in Columbus can help you in your defense against such a serious offense. A good criminal defense lawyer will examine your case closely and come up with the best defense possible to increase your chances of a favorable outcome regarding your particular circumstances.
Some defenses to your case could include, improper reading of your Miranda Rights, improper handling of evidence or illegal search and seizure. A knowledgeable defense attorney will also be with you through all stages of the criminal process such as your first court appearance, any subsequent court appearances, sentencing, and appeals.
