In the state of Wisconsin, it’s illegal to possess a controlled substance with the intent to manufacture, distribute or deliver it. In fact, it’s a felony – and felonies mean plenty of prison time if you’re convicted. In order for a court to convict you with possession with the intent to manufacture, sell or deliver a controlled substance – collectively known as trafficking under Wisconsin law – you must have:
- Possessed the controlled substance
- Known or at least suspected what the substance was
- Intended to make, distribute or deliver it
Sometimes police charge people with this crime because of the amount the person is caught with, or the way it’s packaged – even if there was never any intent to traffic it. (As a side note, attorneys can often fight these charges and, in some cases, can even get the charges reduced to possession rather than trafficking. That only happens on a case-by-case basis, though, and what worked for another person might not work for you.)
Related: What to do if you’re caught with drugs
What Are the Consequences for Drug Trafficking in Milwaukee?
The penalties you’ll face for a drug trafficking conviction depend on the type of drug involved. For example, Schedule I drugs (which have the highest potential for abuse) typically carry heavier penalties. Schedule II drugs often come with lower penalties.
The crime could range from a Class I felony to a Class C felony.
You’ll also be subject to stiffer penalties under certain circumstances. For example, if you use a child under the age of 17 to traffic in drugs, you can be charged with a Class F felony. A Class F felony is punishable by up to 12 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.
Related: What if you’re arrested for dealing drugs in Milwaukee?
Mandatory Driver’s License Suspension
Anyone who’s convicted of a drug crime in Wisconsin will lose his or her driving privileges for at least 6 months. The courts can actually order license suspension for up to 5 years.
Do You Need to Talk to a Lawyer About Drug Trafficking Charges in Milwaukee?
If you’ve been accused of drug trafficking, you probably need to talk to a drug crime lawyer in Milwaukee. Your lawyer can answer all your questions and come up with a strategy that gets you the best possible outcome – and he or she might even be able to negotiate with the prosecutor to lessen the charges against you.
Call us right now at 414-383-6700 for a free case review with an experienced drug crime attorney. We may be able to help you, so don’t wait – call us now.
