Fentanyl Trafficking Lawyer in St. Louis

Fentanyl Trafficking Charges in St. Louis and Across Missouri: Know The Facts

Drug trafficking charges in Missouri are some of the most severe drug-related accusations around, carrying harsh penalties and lifelong consequences if convicted. Due to the opioid crisis in Missouri and throughout the U.S., charges for fentanyl trafficking are among the most stringent.

Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid up to 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin, has contributed significantly to an overall fear among law enforcement and prosecutors. Missouri law reflects the gravity of fentanyl trafficking offenses with strict sentencing guidelines, which include mandatory prison time, high fines, and additional circumstantial penalties, depending on the amount involved and other factors.

Nationally, fentanyl and its analogues have quickly become the third most trafficked drug behind powder cocaine and methamphetamine, with charges increasing 228% over the last four years.

At Combs Waterkotte, we provide the skillful legal representation and critical support you need when facing these complex charges. Our knowledgeable fentanyl trafficking lawyers understand that every case is unique and requires a tailored defense strategy, and our approach combines deep legal expertise, valuable resources, and personalized attention to address the serious nature of fentanyl trafficking charges. Our attorneys have successfully defended more than 10,000 cases just like yours in Missouri.

What is Considered Fentanyl Trafficking in Missouri?

Trafficking is typically defined as possessing, manufacturing, or intending to distribute large quantities of fentanyl. Additionally, law enforcement typically attempts to gather evidence of distribution activities to strengthen the prosecution’s case – like the possession of large quantities of fentanyl or distribution-related equipment. Missouri, like many other states, has thresholds for what constitutes trafficking as opposed to mere possession charges, with strict penalties intended to deter large-scale distribution of the drug. Missouri has taken a strong stance on fentanyl trafficking, and law enforcement often collaborates with federal agencies to address organized trafficking operations or cross-border initiatives.

However, these charges can often be a result of misunderstandings, false accusations, or mistakes made during an investigation. The expert Combs Waterkotte Missouri drug crimes lawyers meticulously analyze every aspect of your case to challenge the evidence and build a strong defense.

What are the Penalties for Fentanyl Trafficking in Missouri?

Trafficking fentanyl in St. Louis or elsewhere in Missouri is classified as either a class B, also known as trafficking drugs, second degree, or class A felony (trafficking drugs, first degree)—depending on the quantity involved:

• Class B Felony: Charge for quantities from 10 to 20 milligrams, carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years and can extend up to 15 years in prison.
• Class A Felony: Includes quantities exceeding 20 mg, carries a mandatory minimum of 10 years imprisonment and could result in a maximum penalty of 30 years to life without the possibility of parole.

Missouri lawmakers have recently proposed changes to lower the threshold—to 14 mg in some cases—for felony charges in fentanyl cases to address the rising overdose crisis.