A judge sentenced a Maryland man to over 30 years in prison for drug-related charges. The court found the 42-year-old California, Maryland resident guilty of possessing harmful drugs with intent to distribute in 2022 and possession of a controlled dangerous substance (CDS) in 2023.
With the separate drug charges, the defendant has two sentences that will run consecutively to each other. The announcement of the sentences underscores the severity of punishments for drug-related offenses in the state.
The drug offenses
On November 2, 2022, law enforcement officers from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a suspicious bag found in a wooded area in California, Maryland. The police found more than 159 grams of cocaine inside the bag, which belonged to the defendant.
The following year, on July 14, 2023, cops found the suspect walking into the same location. After he left, the officers searched the area, discovering two kilograms of cocaine. Authorities executed a search warrant in his home, where they confiscated a large amount of cash and other evidence of distribution.
The punishment for drug crimes in Maryland
In Maryland, it is illegal to manufacture dangerous substances with the intent to distribute them. Selling or possessing cocaine, which is a Schedule II CDS, incurs a maximum fine of $25,000 and prison time of up to 20 years.
Second convictions can lead to a fine of up to $100,000 and at least ten years in jail. Meanwhile, a third offense incurs a maximum $100,000 fine and at least 25 years of jail time. If a suspect is convicted for the fourth time, they may face at least 40 years in prison.
These harsh penalties outline the importance of receiving legal support. Those facing drug charges in the state may benefit from the services of an experienced defense lawyer.