Possible Jail Time for Drug Trafficking in Illinois

Updated on 04/11/2024 / Under

The jail time for felony drug trafficking in Illinois depends on the drugs involved. The more serious the illicit drug offense or the higher the quantity of illegal drugs, the longer the jail time.

  • For a Class X Felony conviction with 15-100 grams of cocaine or heroin, the sentence can be 6-30 years.
  • For a Class 1 Felony drug conviction with less than 15 grams, the sentence can be 4-15 years.
  • For cannabis or Class 3 substances drug crime charges, the sentence can be 2-5 years.

For more information about mandatory minimum term sentences and harsher maximum term punishments, please contact Ktenas Law's drug crime defense lawyers. Call our office at (312) 756-8652.

Felony Drug Trafficking Laws in Illinois

Drug charges for a trafficking crime in Illinois are a serious crime with severe penalties, including jail time. The punishment depends on factors like the amount and type of narcotic drugs involved, as well as any prior possession of drugs convictions.

  • For possessing and intending to distribute over 900 grams of a controlled substance, the sentence is four to 50 years in prison and a fine of up to $200,000.
  • For possessing and intending to distribute between 15 and 900 grams, the sentence is three to 14 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000.
  • Possessing and intending to distribute less than 15 grams is punishable by up to seven years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000.

Factors That Can Affect a Prison Sentence for Felony Drug Trafficking in Illinois

Illinois imposes harsh penalties for anyone convicted of felony drug distribution charges. The amount of jail time someone receives for this crime can vary greatly depending on several factors. Here are some key factors that can affect the length of a prison sentence for felony drug trafficking in Illinois:

Type and Amount of Drug

Different drugs carry different sentences. For example, if someone is charged with selling cocaine, they could face a longer sentence than someone who is charged with selling marijuana. Additionally, the amount of drugs involved can impact the length of the sentence. The more drugs a person is found to have trafficked or possessed, the harsher the punishment will be.

Prior Record or Subsequent Offense

A person’s prior drug possession charges record can affect their sentence for felony drug trafficking in Illinois. If a person has prior convictions for drug transactions, they could face a longer sentence than someone with no criminal record.

Location of Trafficking

The location where the drugs were sold can also impact the severity of the sentence. For example, if a person is found to have trafficked drugs in a school zone or within 1000 feet of a church, they could face enhanced penalties.

a police officer holding a significant amount of drugs found in a car

Aggravating Circumstances

If certain aggravating circumstances are present, such as the use or possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug traffic crime, a person could face additional charges and an increased sentence.

Cooperation With Law Enforcement

If someone cooperates with law enforcement and provides information that leads to the arrest of other drug traffickers or drug suppliers, they may receive more lenient sentencing in exchange for their cooperation.

Types of Drugs Commonly Used in Felony Drug Trafficking

Felony drug trafficking in Illinois carries heavy penalties, including long prison terms. The main drug arrests involve cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, marijuana, and prescription opioids. Possession or sale of these drugs in large amounts is a felony offense.

Marijuana and Cannabis Products

In Illinois, felony drug trafficking of marijuana and cannabis products can result in up to six years in prison. The sentence can be longer with prior convictions or aggravating circumstances.

Factors like the number of grams of drugs, criminal history, and role in the offense determine jail time. Fines and supervised release are also possible penalties.

Anabolic Steroids

In Illinois, felony drug trafficking with anabolic steroids is taken very seriously. The minimum penalties for this crime are one year in prison and a maximum of five years in prison, along with fines of up to $25,000.

Prior convictions for drug trafficking or related drug proceeds crimes can lead to even longer jail time. If a large amount of anabolic steroids is involved, the prison sentence could be extended further.

Stimulants and Depressants

The statutory penalty for drug trafficking in Illinois depends on the type of drug. Stimulants and depressants, like methamphetamine and cocaine, are classified as Schedule II substances.

If caught trafficking these drugs, the penalties are severe. Jail time can range from four to twenty years, depending on the amount and type of drug. A fine and supervised release is also possible. Contact a criminal defense lawyer if you are being charged.

Opioids and Narcotics

Drug trafficking of opioids and narcotics in Illinois is a serious offense with harsh punishments. Convicted individuals can face a minimum of one year in jail. The sentence can range from 4 to 15 years, depending on factors like prior offenses and the amount of drugs involved.

Learn More: Can a Drug Trafficking Charge Get Dismissed?

Fines and supervised release may also be imposed. If you are being charged it is best to call a criminal defense attorney who will be able to guide you on your legal rights in the criminal justice system..

Prescription Drugs Without a Valid Prescription

In Illinois, trafficking prescription drugs without a valid prescription is a criminal charge felony. Punishments range from probation to prison, with the most serious penalties for distributing large quantities resulting in up to 15 years in prison and fines up to $200,000.

Penalties for Felony Drug Trafficking in Illinois

Criminal penalties for felony drug trafficking in Illinois depend on the type and quantity of drugs. Possession of a narcotic or Schedule I or II drug is a Class X felony, with a sentence of 6 to 30 years in prison and up to $200,000 in fines.

an attorney's desk with law books, a gavel, and statue of justice figure on it

Possession with intent to deliver (P WID) dangerous drugs can result in probation or up to 30 years in prison. For PWID with large amounts of drugs, the sentence can be extended to 60 years in prison.

Class X Felony Offenses

In Illinois, drug trafficking is a type of Class X felony offense. The minimum prison term is 6 to 30 years. The maximum sentence can be life in prison or death. It depends on the type and amount of drugs involved. An offender may also receive a fine of up to $500,000. The sentencing range may vary based on the drugs involved. Prior convictions or large amounts of anabolic steroids can lead to increased jail time.

Minimum Sentence for Class X Felony Offense

In Illinois, a Class X Felony offense carries a minimum sentence of 6 to 30 years in prison. This is the most serious type of felony crime and pertains to drug trafficking. It includes various activities such as the unlawful delivery or possession with intent to deliver drugs such as heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine. Depending on the amount and type of drug involved, the penalty can be increased significantly above the minimum.

Maximum Sentences for Class X Felony Offenses

In Illinois, Class X felony offenses can result in 6-30 years in prison. This includes drug trafficking and other serious crimes like burglary and armed robbery. Sentencing for drug trafficking depends on factors like the type and amount of drugs involved.

Cook County Jail Time for Felony Drug Trafficking Charges

Felony drug trafficking charges in Cook County, Illinois can lead to lengthy jail terms. The sentence for a drug trafficking conviction can be 4 to 50 years in prison, depending on the drugs and quantity involved.

In addition to prison time, drug felony convictions may result in large fines and probation. The severity of the sentence is influenced by the drugs, quantity, and prior criminal record. Those found guilty of drug trafficking may also have to pay restitution to the state or victims.

Speak to a Seasoned Drug Defense Lawyer at Ktenas Law

If you're accused of drug trafficking in Illinois, it's crucial to speak with an experienced lawyer right away. Under Drug Laws, a conviction can result in serious consequences, including jail time. At Ktenas Law, we understand the seriousness of these charges and are here to provide aggressive representation. Contact our Chicago defense lawyers today to fight any potential penalties.

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