What Happens If You Are Charged With Drug Trafficking In Minnesota?
Drug trafficking is one of the most serious drug-related crimes in Minnesota. Unlike simple possession, which might involve small amounts of drugs for personal use, trafficking means the state believes you were selling, distributing, or intending to distribute illegal substances.
A drug trafficking charge in Minnesota is always treated as a felony. Convictions can bring up to 30 years in prison, steep fines, and lifelong consequences that affect employment, housing, and family stability.
If you are facing these charges, knowing how Minnesota law defines trafficking, the penalties you could face, and the defenses available is critical to protecting your future.
Don’t risk your future, call Martine Law today.
How Does Drug Trafficking Work Legally In Minnesota?
Drug trafficking in Minnesota falls under the state’s Controlled Substances Act (Minnesota Statutes Chapter 152). Charges are typically based on:
- The type of drug (heroin, meth, cocaine, marijuana, prescription opioids, etc.)
- The amount of the substance involved
- Whether weapons were present during the offense
- Past criminal history
Minnesota divides drug crimes into five degrees, with first-degree being the most severe. Trafficking almost always falls into first or second degree controlled substance crimes, which involve large amounts or intent to sell.
For example:
- First-degree drug trafficking: Possessing 50+ grams of cocaine, meth, or heroin with intent to distribute, or selling smaller amounts multiple times within 90 days.
- Second-degree drug trafficking: Selling or possessing lesser amounts than first degree, but still substantial.
Federal authorities can also step in, meaning charges may be brought in federal court with even harsher penalties.
Common Penalties For Drug Trafficking In Minnesota
If convicted of drug trafficking in Minnesota, potential penalties include:
- First-Degree Controlled Substance Crime
- Up to 30 years in prison
- Fines up to $1,000,000
- Mandatory minimum sentences may apply for repeat offenders
- Second-Degree Controlled Substance Crime
- Up to 25 years in prison
- Fines up to $500,000
In addition, a conviction can also lead to:
- Loss of voting rights and gun ownership rights
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
- Probation with strict conditions
- Asset forfeiture (vehicles, money, or property tied to the crime)
What Should You Do If Charged With Drug Trafficking In Minnesota?
If you are facing drug trafficking charges, the steps you take immediately matter:
- Do not speak to police without a lawyer. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Avoid contacting others involved. Prosecutors may accuse you of tampering with witnesses.
- Preserve evidence. Phone records, texts, or messages may support your defense.
- Hire an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. Drug trafficking cases are complex and require aggressive defense strategies.
Related resources from Martine Law:
How Can A Lawyer Defend Against Drug Trafficking Charges?
A Minnesota drug defense lawyer may challenge trafficking accusations by:
- Questioning the search and seizure. If police violated your Fourth Amendment rights, evidence could be suppressed.
- Challenging intent to distribute. Large amounts may not always mean intent to sell.
- Examining informant credibility. Many trafficking cases rely on confidential informants whose testimony may be unreliable.
- Scrutinizing chain of custody. If evidence was mishandled, the case may weaken.
- Negotiating for reduced charges. In some cases, charges can be reduced to possession or a lower-degree offense.
Key takeaways
- Drug trafficking is one of the most serious felonies in Minnesota, with penalties that can include decades in prison and massive fines.
- Prosecutors must prove both possession of the drug and intent to distribute.
- Defenses often focus on unlawful searches, lack of evidence, or challenging witness credibility.
- If charged, the most important step is contacting an experienced Minnesota drug trafficking lawyer immediately.
Protect your rights with Martine Law
At Martine Law, we know that drug trafficking accusations can turn your life upside down. Our defense team understands Minnesota drug laws and fights aggressively to challenge evidence, protect your rights, and work toward the best possible outcome.
If you or someone you love is facing drug trafficking charges in Minnesota, call Martine Law today.
Contact us at 651-362-4847 and let our team of experienced criminal defense attorneys help you out.