When individuals in Florida and elsewhere think of drug crimes, they likely think of possession for personal use, possession for distribution and the sale of illicit drugs. While these can be serious criminal charges, allegations of drug crimes could also be related to the cultivation and manufacturing of drugs. Facing such charges could mean harsh penalties. Therefore, it is important to understand the laws surrounding these crimes and how best to make a defense against them.
In the state of Florida, they have specific laws concerning drug cultivation and the manufacturing of illicit drugs. To begin, Florida laws prohibit the unlawful cultivation or manufacturing of controlled substances. This includes acts, such as growing marijuana plants and operations to make or process illegal substances, like cocaine, phencyclidine, methamphetamine and other illegal substances.
Certain circumstances can increase the severity of the penalties associated with these crimes. For example, if drug cultivation or manufacturing is conducted within 1,000 feet of a school, daycare facility, Public Park or a community recreational facility, this could result in a first-degree felony charge, compared to a second-degree felony charge.
In addition to charging those found manufacturing or cultivating illegal substances, one could face charges when found in possession of specific chemicals used to cultivate or manufacture controlled substances. Being in possession of these chemicals with the intent to manufacture a controlled substance, or the knowledge that they will be used as such is against the law and could result in drug charges.
Because the consequences could be serious, it is important to take any criminal charge seriously. Taking the time to explore defense options could help defendants understand their rights and abilities to reduce or even dismiss the charges against them.
