Shreveport Drug Possession and Drug Offense
Drug crime defense in Shreveport, LA
With few exceptions, a drug possession charge in Shreveport, LA is a serious situation. Ivan Daigs has defended clients charged with drug offenses for nearly a decade. Mr. Daigs offers legal assistance to clients in Shreveport and the surrounding Louisiana areas on a variety of charges including:
- Drug possession
- Possession with intent to sell or distribute
- Drug sales or distribution
- Drug trafficking
- Drug manufacturing
- Drug smuggling or importation
- Prescription drug fraud
U.S. and Louisiana drug possession laws
Drug possession laws exist at both the state and federal level and carry harsh penalties if convicted. Approximately 20 billion dollars a year is spent by the federal government alone, to enforce drug laws. Louisiana drug laws stipulate that it is a crime to possess any controlled substance or illegal prescription drugs including:
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Heroine
- LSD
- PCP
- Hallucinogens
- Methamphetamines
Additionally, possessing paraphernalia or accessories related to the production and distribution of drugs is also a drug offense in Shreveport and Louisiana.
Enhanced sentencing and harsher penalties
In cases involving large quantities of an illegal drug, the charge may be enhanced to possession with the intent to distribute. Individuals charged with intent to distribute and repeat offenders face stiffer penalties and longer sentences. You also face enhanced charges and stricter sentencing if found in possession of illegal drugs in proximity to certain areas, including:
- Day care centers
- Schools
- Housing projects
- Universities
Drug possession prosecution in Shreveport, LA
Typically, most drug possession cases do not go to trial. Offenders often plead guilty and negotiate with prosecutors on penalties and sentencing which can include:
- Jail or prison time
- Probation
- Fines
- Mandatory treatment programs
However, for a first time offense of simple possession of cocaine for example, you may qualify to participate in a drug diversion program rather than a prison term. Diversion programs are not applicable for defendants facing sale or distribution charges and to qualify, generally the possession must be your first and only serious drug offense.
Talk to a Shreveport drug crimes defense lawyer
Whether you are eligible for diversion or face harsher penalties, Ivan Daigs can provide legal guidance for your circumstances. Contact Ivan Daigs online or call 888-328-1686 today and schedule a consultation to discuss your case.