Drug Crimes (Possession, Distribution, Trafficking)

Whether you are facing charges for drug possession, distribution, or trafficking, the stakes are high ranging from hefty fines and probation to significant prison sentences and a permanent criminal record. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to aggressively defending clients throughout Ohio, ensuring your rights are protected and working tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

Ohio Drug Laws: Key Statutes

Drug crimes in Ohio are governed primarily by the Ohio Revised Code (ORC) Chapter 2925, which covers offenses related to controlled substances. Key statutes include:

• ORC § 2925.11 – Prohibition on Possession of Controlled Substances
• ORC § 2925.04 – Illegal Manufacture of Drugs
• ORC § 2925.03 & 2925.02 – Drug Trafficking and Distribution
• ORC § 2925.13 – Permitting Drug Abuse
• ORC § 2925.14– Drug Paraphernalia

Penalties vary based on the type and quantity of drugs, prior criminal history, and the specific circumstances, such as whether the offense occurred near schools or involved minors.

Common Drug Crimes in Ohio:

• Possession: Having a controlled substance on your person or property, including marijuana, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, or prescription medications without a prescription. Possession can be a misdemeanor or felony depending on the substance and amount.
• Distribution: Selling, delivering, or transferring drugs to another person, including even giving drugs away. Penalties increase with quantity and involvement of minors or schools.
• Trafficking: Transporting or selling large quantities of controlled substances. Trafficking charges carry mandatory prison sentences and hefty fines, especially for substances like heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine.

Common Defenses in Drug Crime Cases

Our attorneys analyze every detail to build a strong defense, often employing these strategies:

• Unlawful Search and Seizure: Challenging whether law enforcement had a valid warrant, probable cause, or conducted illegal searches violating the Fourth Amendment.
• Lack of Possession or Knowledge: Proving that the defendant did not actually possess the drugs or was unaware of their presence.
• Chain of Custody Issues: Questioning the handling and testing of drug evidence to ensure it was not tampered with or contaminated.
• Entrapment: Demonstrating that law enforcement induced the defendant to commit a crime they otherwise would not have committed.
• Medical or Prescription Defenses: Showing that the defendant had a valid prescription or medical justification for possession.
• Mistaken Identity or False Accusations: Challenging the credibility of witnesses or the accuracy of identification.

If you or a loved one is charged with drug possession, distribution, or trafficking in Ohio, early legal intervention is critical. Contact Cohen Todd Criminal Defense today for a confidential consultation. We will thoroughly review your case, protect your rights, and work aggressively to secure the best possible outcome.