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Drug trafficking laws vary by country and region, with penalties based on the type and amount of drugs involved. Possession with intent to sell, production, and distribution are all included. Seizure of property used in drug crimes is common, and penalties are harsher for those involving minors or organized crime. Money laundering charges may also apply.
Drug trafficking laws vary by country and region, but generally include the distribution, manufacturing, and distribution of certain categories of controlled substances. Usually, drugs are classified according to the type and addictive nature of the drug. Addictive narcotics, such as heroin and crack, generally fall into one class, while marijuana and prescription drugs are considered less harmful. International drug trafficking laws are commonly handled under customs law.
Possession of drugs with intent to sell regularly falls under the statutes of drug trafficking. If someone is found with a large amount of drugs, it can be assumed that he intends to distribute the drugs for money. Different regions determine how much and what type of drug is considered out of bounds for personal use. Penalties for violations of these drug trafficking laws are often based on the amount of the drug and its type.
Those who produce drugs can be charged under drug trafficking laws in most places. These sections of the law typically include possession of chemicals or equipment necessary to produce the controlled substance. The narcotics laws in each country outline the exact chemicals or equipment that are considered illegal.
Drug trafficking laws may include a provision that allows law enforcement agencies to seize property used to commit a crime. For example, if drugs are sold from a home or vehicle, a judge can order those assets to be forfeited to the government. The property is typically sold at a public auction, with the proceeds going to fund narcotics operations.
Laws differ for drugs that are given away rather than sold. In the United States, when drugs are distributed free of charge, it is sometimes considered trafficking. In Spain, drug donations may be legal if there is no risk of the drugs being given to a non-user. In Italy it is legal to buy certain medicines for personal use. Most countries, however, prohibit the administration of any type of drug to minors.
Providing drugs to children or using minors to distribute drugs generally carries harsher penalties than those applicable to adults. In some areas, even maintaining a home for the purpose of producing or distributing drugs in which children live is considered a more serious crime than drug trafficking. Stiffer penalties could also be imposed for those who sell drugs near schools, playgrounds, arcades and other areas where children congregate.
There are also laws regulating drug trafficking by criminal gangs or organized groups. Penalties could be increased if weapons are used in the distribution of a controlled substance. Those who profit from the organized sale of narcotics can also be prosecuted under money laundering statutes in some jurisdictions.
