Drug Possession with Intent to Distribute
Charged with possession with intent to distribute?
When a suspect is arrested in possession of drugs under certain circumstances, the prosecutor may increase the charge to possession with intent to distribute, an offense which carries a potentially life-changing sentence. If you find yourself in this position, facing the possibility of time in prison and a criminal record which could ruin your career and your future, come to The Law Offices of Nancy L. Bartling, PLLC, LLC for a confidential consultation with a Long Island drug crime attorney. With more than 50 years of experience and an AV® Preeminent™ rating from Martindale-Hubbell, we have a proven track record of getting results for our clients.
Law enforcement agencies will typically file charges of possession with intent to distribute in situations where the suspect is caught with larger quantities of drugs than would normally be needed for personal use, such as several pounds of marijuana or many kilos of heroin. If you had cocaine stored in individual baggies, or had scales or other paraphernalia which indicated that you were planning to engage in drug sales, this might also lead to a PWID charge. The charges may even be based on an arrest for possession when the police suspect you of distribution but are unable to prove the more serious crime.
Possession with Intent to Distribute in Long Island
Possession with intent to distribute is contained in New York Penal Code section 220.16 "Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Third Degree," and it is a Class B felony, punishable by a sentence ranging from 1 to 9 years in state prison. Even after serving your sentence, you would have to live your life as a convicted felon, which can not only prevent you from finding suitable housing, but may also disqualify you for employment at many companies. We will fight for an exoneration or dismissal of the case, but even if this is not possible we may be able to have the charges reduced to a less serious crime.