In our previous blog post, we discussed some of the trends that were found in a federal sentencing report. If you recall, crack cocaine and cocaine topped the list of drugs associated with federal inmates who were serving prison sentences. Federal laws aren’t the only laws that cover cocaine-related charges. Maryland also has laws pertaining to cocaine-related incidents.
What are the possible penalties for trafficking cocaine?
Maryland laws set the penalty for trafficking cocaine at 20 to 40 years in prison if a person is classified as a drug kingpin. A fine of up to $1 million is also possible.
What are the possible penalties for selling cocaine in Maryland?
Selling cocaine is a felony offense. Cases involving less than 448 grams of powder cocaine or less than 50 grams of crack cocaine can lead to 20 years in prison and up to $25,000 in fines. Cases involving more powder cocaine or crack cocaine than previously mentioned carry a sentence of not less than 40 years in prison. The penalties are increased if there are prior convictions or certain circumstances related to the case.
What are the possible penalties for possession of cocaine?
Possession of cocaine is a misdemeanor unless you bring at least 28 grams into the state. At that point, it becomes a felony. Possession of cocaine carries a prison sentence of up to four years with the penalty doubling with subsequent offenses.
Anyone who is facing a cocaine charge in Maryland should learn about the options he or she has for a defense. Once a strategy is decided upon, building the defense can begin.
Source: FindLaw, “Maryland Cocaine Laws,” accessed Nov. 11, 2015