While drug trafficking is a serious offense with severe penalties, it is one of the most misunderstood drug crimes. Contrary to most people’s beliefs, drug trafficking is a little more complex than most other drug crimes.
Thus, if you or someone you love is facing a possible drug trafficking charge, it helps to acquaint yourself with as much information as possible in order to come up with an effective defense.
Understanding drug trafficking charges in Oklahoma
Per the Oklahoma statute, the prosecution does not need evidence of intent to sell or distribute narcotics. Rather, they solely file charges based on the amount of the illegal drug the individual is found in possession of. This means you can be charged with drug trafficking if caught transporting, selling or distributing narcotics, provided the weight threshold is met:
- A minimum of 25 pounds of marijuana
- A minimum of 28 grams of cocaine
- A minimum of 10 grams of heroin
- A minimum of 28 grams of cocaine base
- A minimum of 20 grams of Phencyclidine (PCP)
- A minimum of 1 gram of Lysergic acid diethylamide
The key elements of Oklahoma drug trafficking charges
Here are some of the elements that the prosecution will need to prove during your trial:
- The drugs in your possession must meet the quantity threshold
- You must have been in physical possession of an illegal drug at the time of the arrest
- You participated in the manufacture, transportation and/or sale of an illegal drug
Protecting your rights
Drug trafficking is a serious criminal offense with far-reaching legal and personal implications. If you are charged with drug trafficking in Oklahoma, it is in your best interest that you explore your defense options.
