Drug distribution cases in Syracuse and around the State of New York can be some of the most complex cases that a court can hear. Not only does the prosecutor need to prove that the defendant was distributing the drugs, but also that the items allegedly being distributed are, in fact, illegal drugs.
Oftentimes, these cases can become highly scientific and rely on complex areas of the law. If you are facing these allegations, it could be essential for you to obtain representation that is prepared to argue every aspect of these cases.
An experienced Syracuse drug distribution lawyer from our firm could provide this representation. At Tully Rinckey PLLC, we understand the complex areas of law that govern these cases, as well as common strategies and methods used by prosecutors to pursue convictions.
New York’s drug laws are fairly straightforward, prohibiting any possession, distribution, or manufacturing of controlled substances. The simplest example of this is the statute that outlaws the distribution or sale of controlled substances. Contained in New York Penal Law §220.31, this statute makes it a class D felony to distribute any illegal drug in the State of New York. This charge typically applies to drug-related acts involving marijuana or prescription drugs.
Things may become much more serious if you allegedly distribute narcotics, including opiates and cocaine derivatives. According to NYPL §220.39, any conviction on this charge is a class B felony that carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence.
More severe penalties can also apply if you are caught selling large amounts of drugs, regardless of your identity. The harshest felonies available under New York law can apply to particularly severe instances of this.
Proving Intent to Distribute
Many people believe that if they are not caught in the process of selling a drug, they can escape prosecution for drug distribution. However, New York’s legislature addressed this potential loophole by passing laws that punish people who possess drugs with the intent to distribute them. While you cannot be prosecuted using the usual drug distribution laws in this situation, the laws that prohibit the mere possession of drugs do apply here.
NYPL §220.06 states that it is illegal to possess any drug with the intent to sell it. This is a class D felony, just like actually selling a non-narcotic drug would be. Also, much like the distribution laws, possessing a narcotic with intent to sell is a more serious offense, as is possessing large amounts of a drug.
It can be difficult for a prosecutor to prove cases of possession with the intent to distribute. Since defendants not accused of actually selling drugs under such circumstances, prosecutors often ask juries to draw inferences from the circumstances of the case. This can include evidence of:
Multiple smaller packages of drugs
The presence of large quantities of cash
Packaging materials
Measuring and weighing equipment
Customer lists
A drug distribution lawyer in Syracuse could help you examine the reasons that the State alleges drug distribution if you believe the drugs were only for your personal use.
A Syracuse Drug Distribution Attorney Could Fight on Your Behalf
Allegations that you sold drugs or possessed drugs with the intent of selling them are among the most serious cases covered under New York Penal Law. Even though many of these cases rely on circumstantial evidence to prove guilt before a jury, prosecutors also use many techniques in concert with police departments to secure convictions.
You may need to take aggressive steps to fight back and defend your freedom, and working with a Syracuse drug distribution lawyer could be a powerful first move. The dedicated attorneys at Tully Rinckey PLLC could work to evaluate the strength of the prosecution’s case, examine the legality of the police work that led to your arrest, and present powerful defenses to juries.
The penalties for a conviction are harsh and could forever change your life. Do not take any unnecessary risks with your future or your freedom—contact a Syracuse drug distribution lawyer, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week via phone at 8885294543, or by e-mail at info@tullylegal.com.
You can also use our secure Live Chat feature to connect with us regarding your matter. Your message will be delivered to a secured firm account with a member from our team ready to assist you.
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