Maryland has strict laws regarding cocaine possession, distribution and trafficking. Understanding the legal framework can help state residents avoid potential legal problems like possession, distribution, trafficking and repeat offending.
Possession
In Maryland, possession of cocaine is considered a misdemeanor. If a person is found possessing less than 28 grams of cocaine, they may face up to four years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000. However, if a person is found in possession of more than 28 grams of cocaine, it is considered a felony, and the penalties are more severe.
Distribution
The distribution of cocaine in Maryland is a serious crime. If a person is found to be distributing cocaine, they may face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000. However, the distribution penalties depend on the amount of cocaine that was distributed.
If a person distributes less than 28 grams of cocaine, they may face up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000. If a person distributes more than 28 grams of cocaine, they may face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.
Trafficking
Cocaine trafficking is also a felony offense in Maryland. If a person is found to be trafficking cocaine, they may face up to 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.
Trafficking is a serious offense, and the penalties are dependent on the amount of cocaine that was trafficked. According to Maryland cocaine laws, if a person traffics between 28 grams and 200 grams of cocaine, they may face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000.
If the individual traffics between 200 grams and 450 grams of cocaine, they may face up to 25 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000. If the offense concerns more than 450 grams of cocaine, they may face up to 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $1,000,000.
Penalties for repeat offenses
Repeat offenses of cocaine possession, distribution or trafficking in Maryland carry even more severe penalties. If a person is convicted of a second offense of possession, distribution or trafficking, they may face double the penalties of their first offense. If there is a conviction for a third offense, the individual may face even more severe penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences.
Steering clear of cocaine-related legal problems
Maryland has strict laws regarding cocaine possession, distribution, and trafficking. Penalties for these offenses can include significant fines and lengthy prison sentences. It is crucial to comprehend the details of the state’s legislation regarding cocaine when facing charges related to the substance.