Although many states are changing their laws to legalize marijuana, Florida has yet to do so. It maintains severe penalties for growing, selling and possession of it. In addition, those who have drug paraphernalia will also face legal consequences. People might be under the impression that marijuana charges are not serious, but depending on the circumstances, they can be felonies. Even those who are under age 18 can be arrested and face onerous punishments. Crafting a strong defense is imperative to address these allegations.
Students accused of selling drugs via social media
With the current health situation, students were forced to use online tools to attend school. In a recent case, three teens – two age 17 and one age 14 – were arrested for using their time online to sell marijuana. Using Snapchat, they were said to be selling marijuana and THC cartridges to other students. Law enforcement went undercover to investigate, posing as a prospective customer. They went to a gas station for the exchange of money for drugs. The three teens were riding bicycles when they went to the meeting.
The 17-year-olds got into the undercover officer’s vehicle while the 14-year-old did not. They sold nearly 57 grams of marijuana and were paid $400. They were then arrested. The 14-year-old was released to his parents. He is not being charged. The 17-year-olds are confronted with felonies for having more than 20 grams of marijuana, intent to sell, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Combating marijuana crimes requires experienced legal advice
Any marijuana arrest can be challenging even if those who were taken into custody are teens. The accusations in this case have reached the felony level meaning that there can be jail, fines and a dramatically changed life. Their future can be substantially compromised depending on the outcome of the case.
It is imperative to consider all available avenues of defense when fighting these charges. Since the teens were said to be selling the drugs online and a detective went undercover to investigate, perhaps protocol was violated and there is a way to call the evidence into question. A plea bargain might be possible or another alternative can be considered. An effective defense could even lead to an acquittal. Consulting with an experienced legal professional who understands how to craft a legal defense against marijuana crimes may be critical.