When an officer pulls you over on the road or approaches your home as part of an investigation, it can suddenly feel like the world is against you if you find yourself accused of drug possession. The potential consequences are even more severe if authorities believe you have the intent to distribute the controlled substances in your possession.
Possession of controlled substances with the intent to distribute them is punishable as a felony offense in Georgia, implying penalties of up to 30 years of prison time and fines starting at $100,000. It is of vital importance that you understand the nature of these harsh accusations and how to defend yourself against them.
What is the basis of an intent to distribute charge?
Georgia statutes on controlled substances define the distribution of drugs as any act of delivering controlled substances other than administering or dispensing them. Authorities might see fit to charge you with drug possession with intent to distribute if they believe they are catching you in the act of delivering drugs, if they find a large quantity of drugs on your property or if they discover equipment used for the manufacturing of controlled substances.
What can you do to defend against charges of drug distribution?
It is good practice to avoid consenting to a search when interacting with law enforcement officers and to exercise your right to remain silent. Avoiding an accidental confession can enable you to strengthen your case by asserting that the charges against you are the result of an unlawful search and seizure.
While there are positive steps you can take both during and after an arrest, proving that you are innocent of having the intent to distribute drugs is difficult to do alone. You need the support of a knowledgeable team throughout the process.
