2 Men Charged With Cannabis & Cocaine Drug Crimes In Virginia
Law enforcement arrested two men in Virginia for allegedly possessing cannabis and cocaine with intent to distribute, according to an article by WJHL.
Officers from both Virginia and Tennessee coordinated to execute the arrests in the morning of Wednesday, January 25. While making the arrests on Interstate 81 in Virginia, officers seized approximately three pounds of cannabis and approximately 500 grams of cocaine.
As a result of this incident, the two men involved each face:
- Two counts of possession of cannabis with intent to distribute;
- Two counts of possession of cocaine with intent to distribute; and
- Multiple conspiracy charges related to the aforementioned crimes.
Although this matter is a long way from trial or even sentencing, it seems like a proper occasion to review the Virginia laws against possessing cannabis or cocaine with intent to distribute.
Possession of Cannabis with Intent to Distribute
Under Code of Virginia Section 18.2-248.1, there is a general prohibition against selling, giving, or distributing cannabis. This section also largely bars a person from possessing cannabis while demonstrating an intent to sell, give, or distribute.
Any person who violates Section 18.2-248.1 with respect to:
- At most one ounce of cannabis — Will likely face Class 1 misdemeanor charges and penalties that can include 12 months in jail and $2,500 in criminal fines;
- Between one ounce and five pounds of cannabis — Will likely face Class 5 felony charges and penalties that can include one to 10 years in prison and $2,500 in criminal fines; or
- More than five pounds of cannabis — Will likely face Class felony charges and penalties that can include five to 30 years in prison and criminal fines.
Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute
Under Code of Virginia Section 18.2-248, there is a general prohibition against selling, giving, manufacturing, or distributing cocaine and other controlled substances. This section also largely bars a person from possessing cocaine while demonstrating an intent to sell, give, or distribute.
Any person who violates Section 18.2-248 with respect to:
- Up to 500 grams of cocaine — Will likely face felony charges and penalties that can include five to 40 years in prison and $500,000 in criminal fines;
- Between 500 grams and 5 kilograms of cocaine — Will likely face felony charges and penalties that can include five years to life in prison and $1,000,000 in criminal fines; or
- At least 5 kilograms of cocaine — Will likely face felony charges and penalties that can include 20 years to life in prison and $1,000,000 in criminal fines.
Do You Need Legal Help?
If you need legal assistance with drug crime charges in Virginia, it can be highly constructive to speak with a dependable Leesburg drug crimes lawyer. The lawyers at Simms Showers LLP possess the skill and experience to assist you in the defense against charges for drug crimes and other offenses. If you need legal help with criminal defense, contact us today for a free initial consultation.
SOURCES:
wjhl.com/news/crime/2-arrested-following-washington-co-va-cocaine-bust/
law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title18.2/chapter7/section18.2-248/
law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title18.2/chapter7/section18.2-248.1/
