How serious are cocaine offenses in Louisiana?

On Behalf of | Aug 27, 2021 | Criminal Defense |

Louisiana is a state that takes drug crimes involving cocaine very seriously. As such if a person is charged and eventually convicted of violating the state’s cocaine laws, they can face very harsh penalties. It’s important to understand what these laws are and the consequences of being convicted.

What are the possible cocaine charges in Louisiana?

Louisiana can hand down various charges related to cocaine. Under the state law, there may be a criminal defense needed for the following cocaine drug charges:

• Possession of cocaine: A person can be arrested and charged with possession of cocaine. The charge can be less serious or more severe depending on the amount of the drug possessed.
• Sale of cocaine: If a person is found to be selling cocaine, they can be charged with the crime of sale of cocaine. The offense is even more serious if the individual who is found to be selling is older than 25 and selling to minors.
• Trafficking of cocaine: Trafficking of cocaine is another potential charge a person can face. If someone is found produces, manufacturing, and possessing the drug with the intention of trafficking it, it’s taken very seriously in the state.

What are the penalties for a conviction for cocaine crimes in Louisiana?

Penalties for cocaine convictions are very serious. As a result, it’s essential to have the best possible criminal defense when facing any type of cocaine drug charge. The following penalties can be handed down for a conviction:

• Penalties for a conviction for possession of cocaine depend on the amount of cocaine involved. If the amount is less than 28 grams, the individual can face up to five years in prison and a maximum fine of $5,000. However, if as much as 400 grams was involved, a person who is convicted can face penalties that include 30 to 60 years in prison with hard labor and a fine ranging from $250,000 to $600,000.
• If a person is convicted of the sale of cocaine, they can receive a prison sentence ranging from five to 30 years plus hard labor and a fine of $50,000. However, if the defendant was over 25 at the time of the offense and sold the drug to minors, they can receive life in prison.
• For a cocaine trafficking conviction, penalties include anywhere from 40 to 99 years in prison with hard labor without parole and a maximum fine of $500,000.

Considering the severity of these crimes and the penalties they carry, it’s important to be smart when facing cocaine charges. You need the help of a professional, which means you shouldn’t go into the case representing yourself.

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