Serious Consequences of Pinellas County Drug Charges When Fentanyl Is Involved

If you or someone you know is facing drug charges in Pinellas County involving fentanyl, it’s crucial to understand the legal implications of these types of charges, and why it is important to  hire a highly-experienced St. Petersburg drug crimes defense attorney with Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan to defend you.

In this blog, we will discuss pre-trial interventions, strategies, and the charges associated with fentanyl in Pinellas County.

Charges Associated with Fentanyl

Pinellas County has witnessed an increase in fentanyl-related convictions in recent years. Because fentanyl is considered a highly addictive and dangerous drug, fentanyl-related drug crimes are being charged harshly by the state attorney’s office.

Per the Drug Enforcement Administration, fentanyl is classified as a Schedule II drug. In Florida, a conviction for possession of fentanyl is considered a third-degree felony, potentially punishable by five years of imprisonment and a fine up to $5,000. 

Fentanyl trafficking charges and punishments are severe and vary based on the quantity:

  • 4 grams or more, but less than 14 grams: 7 years imprisonment and a $50,000 fine
  • 14 grams or more, but less than 28 grams: 20 years minimum imprisonment and a $100,000 fine 
  • 28 grams or more: 25 years minimum imprisonment and a $500,000 fine

 

If an individual is charged with the trafficking of fentanyl, and the prosecution believes that the fentanyl that they distributed led to another individual’s death by overdose, then the individual could also be additionally charged with murder, even if they were not aware that the drugs trafficked were, or contained, fentanyl. 

Pre-Trial Interventions & Strategies

When facing drug charges involving fentanyl, it’s essential for you and your St. Petersburg drug crimes attorney with Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan to explore pre-trial intervention and other strategies to protect your rights and potentially mitigate severe consequences:

Intervene With the Prosecutor to Lessen or Drop Charges

Our attorneys can engage with the prosecutor to negotiate on your behalf. They will advocate for reducing the charges or even seek a dismissal if there are legal grounds to do so before a trial takes place.

Identify Legal Issues With the Investigation or Discovery

Additionally, our attorneys will thoroughly examine the details of your case, including the investigation and discovery process. If any legal issues arise, such as violations of your constitutional rights or flawed evidence, your St. Petersburg drug crimes defense attorney can subsequently file a motion to dismiss or exclude the prosecution’s evidence.

Negotiate a Plea Bargain

In some cases, our attorneys will work diligently to negotiate a favorable plea bargain. This may involve seeking reduced charges or penalties, potentially leading to a more lenient sentence.

 

When facing drug charges involving fentanyl in Pinellas County, the consequences can be severe, potentially impacting your freedom, future, and reputation. Seeking the assistance of a knowledgeable, specialized drug crimes attorney in St. Petersburg with Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan can make a significant difference in your case. 

Request a consultation for a fentanyl-related charge or give us a call today at (727) 578-0303.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.