All drug offenses can result in serious consequences, including prison time, fines, and post-release supervision. When the offense involves large amounts of drugs, however, the situation and potential repercussions become much more serious. In these situations, it is especially vital to work with an experienced Omaha volume dealers’ lawyer who can build a strong defense for charges involving the large-scale distribution of drugs. The dedicated team of drug attorneys at Berry Law can defend you in and out of court.
Distribution, Delivery, and Dispensing of Controlled Substances
Nebraska law categorizes controlled substances according to classification “schedules”, like many other states and the federal government. The schedule of a drug centers on the degree of the potential risk of abuse, as well as the existence of any accepted medical usage. The penalties for distributing controlled substances depends largely on the schedule of the drug along with the amount at hand.
The distribution, deliverance, or dispensing of a controlled substance or possession with the intent to distribute is regulated by Neb. Rev. Stat. § 28-416. In general, distributing controlled substances can result in the following criminal charges:
- Class II felony – exceptionally hazardous drugs found in Schedules I – III
- Class IIA felony – other controlled substances found in Schedules I – III
- Class IIIA felony – controlled substances found in Schedules IV – V
For certain controlled substances, the potential charges are even harsher. The distribution of cocaine, crack, heroin, methamphetamines, and amphetamines can result in the following charges:
- Class IB Felony – 140 grams or more
- Class IC Felony – 28 grams to 140 grams
- Class ID Felony – 10 to 28 grams
An Omaha volume dealers’ lawyer could explain the potential penalties for these offenses and develop a strategy to fight back.
Penalties for Volume Distribution in Omaha
If not abundantly clear already, the potential penalties for the distribution, delivery, or dispensing of controlled substances, or possession with the intent to do so, are very severe. Under Neb. Rev. Stat. §28-105, a Class II felony conviction can result in a prison sentence ranging from one to 50 years. A Class IIA felony conviction can result in a prison sentence of up to 20 years and a Class IIIA felony conviction can result in a prison sentence of up to three years, nine to 18 months of post-release supervision, and a $10,000 fine.
When it comes to dealing in large amounts of heroin, cocaine, crack, methamphetamines, and amphetamines, as well as the derivates of those controlled substances, the potential penalties are even harsher. Distribution of 140 grams of any of these drugs or more can result in a minimum 20 years of incarceration, and in some cases, a life sentence depending on the circumstances. Factors such as the amount and extent of prior convictions, the proximity of the offense near certain locations, such as a school or playground, and the involvement of minors all may contribute to an increase in penalties upon a conviction.
Consult an Omaha Volume Dealers Attorney Today
Anyone who is accused of the distribution, delivery, and dispensing of controlled substances, particularly in large amounts, should take any resulting criminal charges very seriously. An Omaha volume dealers’ lawyer could work to develop the strongest strategy to fight such allegations.
If you or a loved one has been accused of dealing large volumes of controlled substances, call Berry Law today to set up a confidential case evaluation with one of our relentless drug offense attorneys and get the assistance needed to fight back.