Drug trafficking is a severe offense in Michigan, and for good reason. The state’s proximity to Canada and several major interstate systems contribute to its role as a transit and destination point for illegal substances. It’s no wonder the state has some of America’s strictest controlled substances laws.
According to Michigan law, drug trafficking is a broad term. It can cover the manufacture, delivery, or possession with intent to deliver narcotics. Severe penalties await anyone convicted of drug trafficking in the state.
The penalties for drug trafficking
Penalties for drug trafficking in Michigan vary depending on the type and amount of substance involved:
- Schedule I and II substances (such as heroin and cocaine)
- Less than 50 grams: Felony charge, up to 20 years in prison, and/or fines up to $25,000
- 50 to 449 grams: Felony charge, up to 20 years in prison, and/or fines up to $250,000
- 450 to 999 grams: Felony charge, up to 30 years in prison, and/or fines up to $500,000
- 1 kilogram or more: Felony charge, up to life in prison, and/or fines up to $1,000,000
- Marijuana
- Less than five kilograms or fewer than 20 plants: Felony charge, up to four years of prison, and/or fines up to $20,000
- Five kilograms or more, but less than 45 kilograms; 20 or more plants, but fewer than 200: Felony charge, up to seven years of prison, and/or fines up to $500,000
- 45 kilograms or more; 200 plants or more: Felony charge, up to 15 years of prison, and/or fines up to $10,000,000
- Drugs like Ecstasy and MDMA
- Any amount: Felony charge, up to 20 years in prison, and/or fines up to $25,000
- Synthetic equivalents or derivatives of cannabis
- Any amount: Felony charge, up to seven years in prison, and/or fines up to $10,000
Facing drug trafficking charges in Michigan can be a daunting experience. A conviction can lead to years of prison time and heavy fines. Not to mention, all drug trafficking offenses are felonies, which can leave individuals with a criminal record that hurts their employment and educational opportunities.
It is crucial for anyone accused of drug trafficking to seek competent legal counsel to navigate the complexities of the legal system.
