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No matter what kind of drug is involved, trafficking charges can result in severe consequences. Though sentencing depends on the specific illegal substance and the quantity of that substance, all trafficking charges are met with both jail time and hefty fines. That’s why it’s vital to get an experienced drug crimes defense attorney on your side as soon as possible. Our team here at Hanlon Law are ready and waiting to help you build the best possible defense. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
Florida Statute 893.135 defines drug trafficking as “intentionally selling, manufacturing, purchasing, possessing, delivering, or transporting an illegal substance in the state.” This definition also extends to drugs that have been imported into but did not originate in the state.
Statute 893.135 also outlines a list of minimum quantities that must be involved in order for a charge to qualify as drug trafficking. These quantities depend on the specific illicit substance in question, and will determine the severity of the crime and subsequent consequences.
Gamma-Butyrolactone (GBL) was originally created as a paint stripper. However, due to the “high” it can cause, it is now used recreationally, often in group situations such as clubs, raves, etc.
While Gamma-Butyrolactone does induce feelings of euphoria, making it attractive for those seeking a high, the drug can also result in violent spasms and other dangerous side effects. Even low quantities of Gamma-Butyrolactone can result in unconsciousness. This has earned Gamma-Butyrolactone a reputation as “a coma in a bottle.” Gamma-Butyrolactone is also very easy to overdose on, which can result in severe long-term consequences up to and including death.
Other common names for Gamma-Butyrolactone include: GBL, Blue Nitro, Blue Nitro Vitality, Revivarant, RenewTrient, Fire Water, Gamma-G, GH Revitalizer, and Remforce.
As Gamma-Butyrolactone is so easy to overdose on, the legal minimum quantity for trafficking is very low. Any involvement in the production, importation, distribution, and/or transportation of more than 1 kilogram of Gamma-Butyrolactone, or more than 1 kilogram of any mixture that contains Gamma-Butyrolactone, will be charged as Gamma-Butyrolactone trafficking, as a first-degree felony.
It’s important to note that Gamma-Butyrolactone trafficking charges are exempt from any changes to the minimum mandatory sentencing. Whereas other drug trafficking charges may see lighter sentences depending on certain mitigating factors at the judge’s discretion, Gamma-Butyrolactone traffickers must face the mandatory minimum sentence no matter what.
Amount of GBL | Imprisonment | Fine |
---|---|---|
1 kilogram - 5 kilograms | 3 year minimum | $50,000 |
5 kilograms - 10 kilograms | 7 year minimum | $100,000 |
10 kilograms or more | 15 calendar year minimum | $250,000 |
All Gamma-Butyrolactone trafficking is considered a first-degree felony. However, trafficking in more than 150 kilograms of Gamma-Butyrolactone can be charged as a capital felony. Capital felonies are punishable by life imprisonment without eligibility for parole, and may even be met with the death penalty.
Felons may also face a variety of other long-term consequences outside jail time and fines. Any endeavor that requires a background check may result in difficulties, such as applying for a job, receiving professional licensure, finding housing, or even securing educational opportunities.
As Gamma-Butyrolactone trafficking is almost always charged as a felony, it’s imperative to seek legal counsel immediately. The prosecution must be able to both prove beyond reasonable doubt that the defendant is guilty, so having a solid defense strategy is paramount. A competent drug crimes lawyer will consider all the evidence and whether or not that evidence was obtained legally. For example, improper search and seizure by law enforcement officers may lead to evidence being thrown out.
Drug trafficking charges, regardless of the drug in question, are also often accompanied by other related charges. It’s important to seek a defense attorney that has experience in multiple disciplines.
If you’ve been charged with Gamma-Butyrolactone trafficking, or any other drug crime, you need the best of the best on your side. At Hanlon Law, our team brings nearly two decades of experience in the defense business. We’ll consider all the angles to help you secure the best possible outcome.
Contact us today to get a free consultation.
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