Criminal Charges And Health Dangers Related To Fentanyl
As a pharmaceutical product, fentanyl is a powerful painkiller prescribed for fighting acute pain such as that caused by cancer. It is stronger and therefore better at alleviating pain than morphine, and it is also highly addictive. According to a study by the American Addiction Centers, as an illegal substance, its effects are stronger than heroin, and it is cheaper to acquire. The combination of those factors may have led to the illegal market for this substance, despite the harsh regulations for possession with intent to sell and other related drug crimes.
The Pandemic And The Increase In Fentanyl Demand
Fentanyl use increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the drug became the leading cause of overdose deaths in America in 2021. According to mental health specialists, the abuse of substances is a widely used coping mechanism to face difficult or traumatic events. The pandemic has posed challenges at many levels in society, and fentanyl has become an alternative to cope with stress and uncertainty. Even though the social factors behind such an increase are far more complex, one fact remains: fentanyl is a hazardous drug that could prove fatal even in small amounts.
Potential Criminal Charges Related To Fentanyl
The possession of fentanyl for personal use or with the intent of selling or trafficking are felonies punished with jail time or a maximum of 99 years in prison. Fines start at $10,000 and can be up to $250,000 for possession of less than 1 gram to less than 400 grams, respectively.
The Texas government has toughened the penalties for the manufacturing and distribution of fentanyl after passing Senate Bill 768. According to the bill, the minimum prison time is 10 years for four grams of fentanyl, while the maximum sentence increased to life in prison.
The Experienced Legal Assistance You Require
The Law Offices of Anthony B. Cantrell has been defending the rights of individuals facing state and federal drug charges for more than 30 years in San Antonio and across Texas. Law enforcement may have made mistakes when collecting evidence or might have forced an individual to a confession. In addition, there might not be sufficient evidence to prove someone is guilty of a crime. When we work on your case, our attorneys will analyze it in detail and will work on a legal strategy to protect your rights. You can trust our attorneys’ experience and dedication to asserting your rights.
Time Is Against You When You Are Facing Criminal Charges
Call our office at 210-888-9653 locally or at 866-604-7814 in New Braunfels. You can also share your contact information via our online intake form. Your initial consultation is free of charge. We serve clients who speak Spanish.