In Texas, drug trafficking is a serious criminal offense with profound implications. The state’s stringent approach to handling such cases reflects a commitment to curbing the proliferation of controlled substances. Understanding Texas drug trafficking laws and the penalties associated is vital not only for those facing a drug trafficking charge in Texas but also for the general public. This blog post aims to demystify the complexities surrounding these laws, clarifying what constitutes a controlled substance, the various penalty groups, and the potential legal consequences of a Texas drug trafficking charge.

What Constitutes Drug Trafficking in the Texas Penal Code?

Under the Texas Penal Code, drug trafficking is a broad term encompassing the manufacture, delivery, or possession with intent to deliver controlled substances. It is not limited to large-scale operations; even smaller transactions can qualify as trafficking. This includes activities like selling drugs, transporting them for distribution, or even possessing large quantities that suggest an intent to distribute. The law focuses on the intent and action of distribution, making it a more serious offense than simple possession.

What is a Controlled Substance in Texas?

In Texas, a controlled substance is defined under the Texas Controlled Substances Act. These substances are drugs or chemicals whose manufacture, possession, and use are regulated by the government due to their potential for abuse and addiction. The Act categorizes drugs into various schedules based on their accepted medical use, potential for abuse, and safety under medical supervision. The classification of a substance plays a pivotal role in determining the legal repercussions for drug-related offenses, influencing everything from the severity of drug charges  to the penalties imposed.

What Drugs Count as a Controlled Substance?

Controlled substances in Texas cover a wide range of drugs, each with varying degrees of control and regulation. These include commonly known illicit drugs like cocaine, heroin, LSD, and methamphetamine. Prescription medications such as opioids (oxycodone, hydrocodone), benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium), and ADHD medications (Adderall, Ritalin) also fall under this category when not prescribed lawfully. The inclusion of a drug in this list is based on its potential for abuse, the likelihood of dependence, and whether it has a legitimate medical use.

What Drugs Are Not Considered Controlled Substances?

Not all substances with psychoactive effects are classified as controlled substances in Texas. Common items such as caffeine and nicotine, found in coffee and cigarettes respectively, are legal and unregulated. Additionally, certain herbal supplements, despite having mild psychoactive properties, do not fall under the controlled substances category. It is crucial to recognize this distinction, as the legal implications of possessing or distributing these unregulated substances differ significantly from those categorized as controlled.

Penalty Groups Explained

Texas law classifies controlled substances into different penalty groups, each with specific drugs and corresponding legal consequences.

• Penalty Group 1: This group includes drugs like cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and LSD. The most severe penalties are associated with these substances.
• Penalty Group 1-A: Specifically for Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD), with penalties based on the number of dosage units rather than weight.
• Penalty Group 1-B: Includes Fentanyl, with penalties determined by the amount in grams.
• Penalty Group 2: Contains drugs like ecstasy, PCP, mescaline, and amphetamines.
• Penalty Group 2-A: Comprises synthetic cannabinoids.
• Penalty Group 3: This group includes drugs prescribed for medical use like Xanax, Valium, and Ritalin, which have a lower potential for abuse.
• Penalty Group 4: Consists mainly of compounds containing small amounts of narcotics, like certain prescription medicines.

The penalties increase with the group’s severity and the amount of the substance involved.

What Are The Penalties for Drug Trafficking in Texas?

The penalties for drug trafficking in Texas are structured according to the penalty groups and quantities involved. Here is an itemized list highlighting these distinctions:

• Group 1 (e.g., Cocaine, Heroin):
  • Less than 1 gram: State jail felony
  • 1 to 4 grams: Second-degree felony
  • 4 to 200 grams: First-degree felony
  • 200 to 400 grams: Enhanced first-degree felony
  • Over 400 grams: 15 to 99 years or life in prison, and up to $250,000 fine
• Group 2 (e.g., Ecstasy, PCP):
  • Less than 1 gram: State jail felony
  • 1 to 4 grams: Second-degree felony
  • 4 to 400 grams: First-degree felony
  • Over 400 grams: 5 to 99 years in prison, and up to $50,000 fine
• Group 3 & 4 (e.g., Xanax, Valium):
  • Less than 28 grams: State jail felony
  • 28 to 200 grams: Second-degree felony
  • 200 to 400 grams: First-degree felony
  • Over 400 grams: 5 to 99 years in prison, and up to $50,000 fine

Enhanced penalties apply for trafficking near drug-free zones, involving minors, or if there are previous convictions. This detailed structure reflects the severity with which Texas addresses drug trafficking. 

How is Marijuana Dealt With in Texas?

In Texas, marijuana is classified distinctly within the state’s controlled substances framework. Unlike other drugs that are categorized into Penalty Groups 1 – 4, marijuana has its own set of penalties. The penalties for marijuana-related offenses in Texas vary based on the amount involved and can range from misdemeanors to felonies, often resulting in significant fines and jail time, especially for larger quantities or trafficking activities. The categorization and penalties for marijuana reflect its unique legal status in Texas, which remains stringent despite changing attitudes and laws in other states.

How Do We Defend Against Drug Trafficking Charges in Texas?

Defending against drug trafficking charges in Texas requires a multifaceted legal strategy. Common defense approaches include:

• Challenging the Evidence: This might involve questioning the legality of the search and seizure, disputing the way the evidence was handled or tested, and examining the credibility of witnesses.
• Disputing Intent: Arguing that the accused had no intention to distribute the controlled substance.
• Proving Lack of Knowledge: Demonstrating the accused was unaware of the controlled substance’s presence or nature.
• Constitutional Violations: Identifying any violations of constitutional rights during the arrest or investigation.

Each case is unique, necessitating a tailored defense strategy. An experienced drug defense attorney in Texas can navigate these complexities, aiming to reduce or dismiss the charges. Facing a drug trafficking charge in Texas can be an overwhelming experience, but you do not have to navigate it alone. For legal assistance in your drug trafficking case, schedule a free consultation today.