What are Michigan’s Drug Trafficking Laws?
To prosecutors, courts, and the Michigan Legislature, ‘drug dealers’ are viewed as among the most reprehensible citizens in the state. Because these individuals and entities are responsible for creating legislation, the laws surrounding drug sales and manufacturing in Michigan are particularly severe. If you are charged with drug delivery or manufacturing in a state court, it is likely that a conviction will lead to a substantial prison sentence.
Drug trafficking encompasses growing, producing, distributing, and selling drugs. If you or someone you know faces arrest for possessing a controlled substance with the intent to distribute, consult with Detroit Attorney Ashlee Duplessis to start fighting for your rights.
Michigan’s Felony Drug Crimes
Drug trafficking cases often involve significant quantities of illegal drugs. Michigan enforces severe penalties for possessing substantial amounts of illicit substances, and without competent legal representation, you risk a lengthy prison sentence. Possessing just 25 grams of drugs like cocaine, fentanyl, or other Schedule 1 or 2 drugs, could result in four years imprisonment and a $25,000 fine, while more significant amounts can lead to life imprisonment and fines exceeding a million dollars. If authorities can prove you had the intent to distribute, penalties could become even more severe. Using Cocaine, a Schedule 2 Drug, as an example:
Cocaine Possession Charges and Penalties in Michigan
- Possession of fewer than 50 grams: Imprisonment up to four years and/or a $25,000 fine
- Possession of 50 to 449 grams: Imprisonment up to 20 years and/or $250,000 fine
- Possession of 450 to 999 grams: Imprisonment up to 30 years and/or $500,000 fine
- Possession of 1,000 grams or more: Life imprisonment and/or $1,000,000 fine
Being charged with Drug Manufacturing is a serious felony crime. It can be brought against someone who is suspected of owning, possessing, or using a vehicle to manufacture drugs. It can also be charged when someone uses a building, structure, or land, for the same purpose. Owning or possessing the chemicals or equipment used in the manufacturing of drugs can bring on this charge, as can the sale or provision of such items to someone else.
Drug Manufacturing Aggravating Factors
If you have knowledge of drug manufacturing taking place on your property, or if you own, possess, or provide lab equipment or chemicals that are used in drug manufacturing, you may be charged with manufacturing a controlled substance under Section 333.7401c. This offense carries felony penalties, including up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000. In some cases, the penalties may be more severe.
If you manufacture drugs within 500 feet of a residence, business, school, or church, the penalties can be severe. You may face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and be required to pay a fine of up to $100,000.
If you are found guilty of manufacturing drugs in the presence of a minor, the consequences can be severe. You could face up to 20 years of imprisonment and be obligated to pay a fine of up to $100,000.
Another aggravating factor is being charged with manufacturing drugs that result in hazardous waste can lead to serious consequences. If you are found guilty of this offense, which involves the unlawful generation, treatment, storage, or disposal of hazardous waste, you may be sentenced to up to 20 years in prison and required to pay a fine of up to $100,000.
If your alleged drug manufacturing involves the possession, placement, or use of a firearm or weapon, the penalties can be even harsher. You may face a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison and be required to pay a fine of up to $100,000.
You have rights against unfair prosecution
It’s highly discouraged to defend yourself against criminal charges, whether they are misdemeanors or felonies, as there are several risks involved. Firstly, you may inadvertently commit perjury by providing false information in court. Secondly, without the necessary legal expertise, it can be difficult to determine the best course of action to take. Criminal proceedings can be complicated, and there are several steps involved both before and after a trial that only a criminal defense attorney is equipped to handle. Therefore, it’s advisable to seek the guidance of a criminal defense attorney to increase your chances of keeping a clean record and minimizing the severity of the consequences you face, especially for charges as serious as drug trafficking. If you’re facing any felony drug charges, give Ashlee Duplessis a call today.