In California and in federal court, drug trafficking charges carry severe penalties. California Health and Safety Code Section 11379 prohibits unlawfully selling, transporting, importing, exporting, or distributing controlled substances. If convicted, a person could face a 2-4 year jail sentence, up to $10,000 in fines, or both. Other factors can enhance these penalties, such as conducting the crime within certain areas or across two or more counties. In addition, cases involving the transportation or distribution of controlled substances across state or national borders often trigger federal charges. Let’s take a look at three important insights about drug trafficking crimes in Los Angeles and surrounding Counties and across the U.S.
Characteristics of Most Drug Trafficking Offenders
According to 2019 data released by the United States Sentencing Commission, 83.3 percent of drug trafficking offenders were male, and their average age was 36 years at the time of sentencing. In 2015, 85.2 percent of offenders were male, with an average age of 35. Approximately 45 percent of drug trafficking offenders between 2015 and 2019 had little to no prior criminal history, while those classified as “Career Offenders” made up 6.7 percent of all convictions. While these statistics are derived from the federal court system, the numbers for California state are equivalent.
Sentencing Varied Depending on Several Factors
On average, federal drug trafficking offenders received sentences of 77 months. Sentences increased for offenders who used or possessed a weapon or played a leadership role in the transaction. In contrast, penalties lessened for those who played a minimal role in the offense or exhibited other mitigating factors. The majority of offenders (96.4 percent) received some sort of prison sentence. In general, crimes involving methamphetamine resulted in harsher penalties than those involving Oxycodone. In California state court, there is a tremendous disparity in sentencing depending on the same factors applicable to federal cases with the average sentence being slightly lower than in federal court.
Increased Drug Trafficking Activity in Southern California
Between 2015 and 2019, the Western District of Texas led the nation in drug trafficking activity. The Southern District of California came in at number two. Los Angeles is located in the Central District of California. During the previous period (between 2010 and 2015), the Southern District of California was ranked number three, below the Western District of Texas and the District of Arizona. With the recent discovery of a major drug trafficking ring in Los Angeles County, Southern California continues its efforts to crack down on drug crimes throughout the state.
If you’ve been charged with drug trafficking or similar charges in Los Angeles or surrounding Counties, whether in Federal or State court, call Wegman & Levin today at (818) 980-4000 to schedule a free consultation with a trusted criminal defense attorney.
