Florida has some of the toughest drug laws in the country, and few charges carry consequences as severe as drug trafficking. It’s important to understand how these charges work, why they’re so serious, and what to do if you or someone you love is facing an investigation.
Many people assume drug trafficking charges only apply to large-scale dealers or organized crime. In reality, Florida law defines trafficking much more broadly and that misunderstanding alone can change someone’s life overnight.
What Is Drug Trafficking in Florida?
Under Florida law, drug trafficking is often determined by quantity, not intent. This means a person can be charged with trafficking even if there is no evidence of selling drugs.
You may face a trafficking charge if you are accused of:
- Possessing a certain amount of a controlled substance
- Transporting drugs, even if they belong to someone else
- Being connected to drugs found in a shared vehicle or residence
- Being linked to drugs through text messages, phone records, or financial transactions
In many cases, people are shocked to learn that what they believed was “simple possession” is being charged as trafficking.
Fentanyl and Trafficking Charges: A Hidden and Dangerous Risk
Fentanyl-related trafficking charges present an especially serious and often misunderstood risk.
For example, in Florida it is a third-degree felony to be in possession of 4g of cocaine, a charge that often results in probation or a short-term sentence. However, if that same cocaine is laced with fentanyl, even in a very small amount, the charge can escalate dramatically. Because trafficking laws focus on the presence and total weight of the controlled substance, a person can be charged with trafficking in more than four grams of fentanyl, a first-degree felony, even when the mixture is almost entirely cocaine. This charge carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of seven years and a $50,000 fine. Importantly, trafficking laws do not require proof of intent to sell; the charge is based solely on the weight and classification of the substance involved.
Why Drug Trafficking Charges Are So Serious
Drug trafficking charges in Florida carry mandatory minimum sentences, meaning judges often have little discretion, even for first-time offenders.
Penalties can include:
- Mandatory prison time
- Substantial fines
- Felony convictions that permanently impact employment, housing, and civil rights
Because of these severe consequences, trafficking cases are prosecuted aggressively. Law enforcement and prosecutors often rely on:
- Traffic stops and search warrants
- Confidential informants
- Text messages and phone data
- Payment apps like Cash App, Venmo, or Zelle
- Associations with others already under investigation
- Social media posts
Once charges are filed, cases can move quickly.
Cannabis & Trafficking Charges
Cannabis-related trafficking charges are increasingly common, especially with concentrates, edibles, and high-THC products. Even when marijuana is involved, Florida law does not treat trafficking lightly.
Confusion around hemp-derived products, THC limits, and legality often leads people to believe they are complying with the law, until they’re arrested.
Why Early Legal Representation Matters
Drug trafficking cases are highly technical and evidence-driven. The earlier a criminal defense attorney becomes involved, the more opportunities there are to:
- Challenge illegal searches and seizures
- Suppress improperly obtained evidence
- Question how substances were tested and weighed
- Identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
- Negotiate charges or sentencing alternatives when possible
As Attorney David Bigney often emphasizes, early intervention can make a meaningful difference in the outcome of a case.
What to Do If You’re Being Investigated
If you believe you’re under investigation, or have already been charged, do not speak with law enforcement without legal counsel. What you say early on can significantly impact your case.
