What Are the Three Important Drug Distribution Categories in Arizona?

Even a minor drug distribution offense shouldn’t be taken lightly. While drugs with the purpose of personal use carry lighter punishments and jail alternatives, if you’re suspected of selling them, the punishment will be much less forgiving.

An individual charged with the distribution or transportation of dangerous drugs can face heavy legal penalties, especially in Arizona. The felony charges for drug distribution vary depending on if the individual has a prior criminal record, if there were any aggravating circumstances (such as if the distribution occurred close to a school) and the type of drug involved.

The Drug Distribution Landscape in Arizona

Arizona has always been strict about penalizing crimes involving drugs and alcohol. State law enforcement agencies use various tactics to apprehend those implicated in drug distribution, including surveillance, informants and undercover operations. In some cases, drug distribution charges can even occur at both the state and federal levels without risking double jeopardy. Since federal charges often contain more severe penalties, a drug distribution charge can result in extreme sentences.

There are three categories of drug distribution in Arizona:

Dangerous Drugs

Dangerous drugs are substances that carry a high risk for abuse and pose an acute threat to public health and safety. The categorization includes a wide range of drugs, including methamphetamines, LSD, psychedelic mushrooms, ecstasy, plant-based drugs and narcotics. 

It is a Class 2 felony to transport, offer to transport or import dangerous drugs for sale into Arizona. As such, a first offense can mean three to four years in prison, escalating if the offense is repeated. If the amount of these drugs exceeds the statutory limit, the person being charged will not qualify for a suspended sentence or probation. The charge for meth transportation is especially severe, with a sentencing range of five to 15 years.

Narcotic Drugs

Despite being listed as a dangerous drug, narcotics carry their own distribution charge, including fentanyl, opium, benzethidine, coca, cannabis, sufentanil, heroin, tramadol and hydrocodone. 

Because they are classified as dangerous drugs, distributing narcotic drugs is also a Class 2 felony. If the amount of these drugs meets or exceeds the statutory limit, eligibility for pardon, probation or suspension is revoked until the person charged serves their entire sentence.

Prescription-Only Drugs

Prescription-only drug charges involve the unauthorized distribution or use of medications obtained through legitimate means, as these substances can only be given with a licensed physician’s prescription. The area of prescription-only drugs can be grey, as it’s inherently about turning the possession of legally obtained drugs into an illegal offense.

In Arizona, the penalties for prescription-only drug distribution are much less extreme than dangerous drug and narcotic charges. It’s only a Class 6 felony with a range of four months to just under six years of jail time. While an individual may qualify for probation, it’s only available after they’ve performed no less than 240 hours of community restitution, and even then, it’s a rare occurrence.

What to Do If You’re Charged with Drug Distribution

If you find yourself facing drug distribution charges in Arizona, it is likely in your best interest to seek immediate legal representation from a skilled drug offenses defense lawyer. A private practice criminal defense lawyer will protect your constitutional rights, construct a strong defense strategy and negotiate for reduced charges on your behalf, helping to increase your case’s chance of receiving a better outcome.

You can help them strengthen your case by remaining silent during the investigation. Anything you say can be used against you in court, so it’s critical that you only discuss your case with your attorney. Additionally, providing your lawyer with any evidence, documents and potential witnesses can further support your defense.

Work With a Tenacious Phoenix Drug Lawyer Who Recognizes the Stakes of Your Case

Many Arizona residents have turned to drug defense lawyer Michael Alarid III for help fighting drug distribution charges. Arizona Board-Certified Criminal Defense Attorney Michael Alarid openly communicates with clients, so you never feel lost about your own case. He is committed to operating with a clear-sighted perspective, giving you the facts and nothing less.

You deserve zealous representation, and the Law Office of Michael Alarid III will give you that and more. Schedule a free case consultation by calling (602) 818-3110 or visiting our website today.