Law Enforcement May Pursue Drug Charges Related to Fentanyl Overdoses

 Posted on July 19, 2021 in Drug Charges

The “war on drugs” has led law enforcement officials to crack down on anyone who is suspected of illegally possessing, selling, distributing, or manufacturing controlled substances. Recently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that there has been an increase in the number of drug overdoses related to fentanyl. Because of this, authorities may be looking to pursue drug charges against those who are accused of possessing this substance. Anyone who has been arrested for drug possession or distribution will need to secure representation from a criminal defense lawyer.

Increased Concerns About Fentanyl and Cocaine

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that has become more available in recent years, since it is fairly easy and inexpensive to manufacture. It is highly addictive, and it is often more potent than other opioid drugs. Recently, officials have raised concerns about an increased number of overdoses involving the combination of fentanyl and cocaine. These overdoses may have occurred because the drugs were unintentionally mixed together or because drug users attempted to use multiple substances at the same time. Those who have not built up a tolerance for fentanyl are more likely to experience dangerous or fatal overdoses.

Fentanyl-Related Drug Charges in Connecticut

Under Connecticut law, illegal possession of a controlled substance may be charged as a Class A misdemeanor, and a conviction can result in a prison sentence of up to one year, as well as a maximum fine of $2,000. However, law enforcement officials may pursue charges for possession of controlled substances with the intent to sell, distribute, give, or administer these substances to someone else. The specific charges will usually be based on the amount of drugs that are found in a person’s possession, and even seemingly small amounts of fentanyl or other drugs could lead to charges of illegally manufacturing, distributing, or selling controlled substances.

A conviction for a first offense of drug distribution can result in a prison sentence of up to 15 years and a maximum fine of $50,000, while a second conviction can result in a prison sentence of up to 30 years and a maximum fine of $100,000. Increased charges may apply if a person is not drug-dependent, and in these cases, a conviction for distribution of narcotic substances can result in a prison sentence of 5 to 20 years for a first offense or 10 to 25 years for a second offense. If a person is accused of transporting drugs across state lines or being involved in a drug conspiracy that affected interstate or international commerce, they may face federal drug charges, which can result in even more serious penalties.

Contact Our Hartford Drug Crimes Defense Attorney

Whether they are prosecuted in state or federal courts, drug charges should be taken very seriously. The Woolf Law Firm can help you understand the specific charges you are facing, and we can provide you with a defense to help you minimize the potential consequences you may face, including determining whether diversion programs may be available that will help you receive treatment for substance abuse. To get legal help with your case, contact our Connecticut drug charges lawyer at 860-290-8690 and arrange a complimentary consultation today.

Sources:

https://www.npr.org/2021/07/05/1013203805/party-drugs-are-being-increasingly-laced-with-fentanyl

https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2021-02/DIR-008-21%202020%20National%20Drug%20Threat%20Assessment_WEB.pdf

https://www.cga.ct.gov/current/pub/chap_420b.htm