What Happens When Juveniles Are Involved in Drug Trafficking?

Many minors and their parents are often shocked by how easily a teenager can end up in jail or serve long prison sentences for drug offenses. Trafficking of even the tiniest amount of drugs is a felony, and many drug convictions carry mandatory minimum sentences. Florida law treats drug offenses severely, even for minors. If the crime is severe enough, prosecutors can charge a minor as an adult, exposing them to the same penalties an adult would face. This often happens in drug trafficking cases, especially when the offense involves the sale, distribution, or delivery of controlled substances.

If a juvenile is tried as an adult and found guilty of selling or distributing drugs within 1,000 feet of a school in Florida, they face a mandatory minimum sentence of three years, with the potential for an even longer sentence. Because of such harsh penalties, it is usually best to try and move your case to juvenile drug court if you are charged with drug trafficking or any related offense.

Case Example: Florida Teen Charged With Manslaughter

In October 2023, a 17-year-old student at DeLand High School in Florida was charged with manslaughter after selling a fatal dose of fentanyl to another 17-year-old who thought he was buying cocaine, leading to the classmate’s overdose death. Text messages and other records indicated multiple transactions between the suspect and the victim.

Upon his arrest on July 31, authorities found approximately one gram of fentanyl and a pound of marijuana in his possession. He was arrested and first charged with distributing fentanyl, intending to sell cannabis, and illegally using a communication device. Following the victim’s death, a manslaughter charge was added. Further investigations revealed that the accused had been supplying various drugs to fellow students, including marijuana and Adderall. In another instance, the same 17-year-old was identified as the individual who sold a vape laced with an unknown substance to a 14-year-old De Land high school freshman; luckily, the girl survived.

This case demonstrates how quickly a juvenile drug offense can escalate. Selling or delivering drugs is already a felony, but if someone dies as a result, prosecutors may add more serious charges, including manslaughter.

The Long-Term Consequences of a Juvenile Drug Conviction

A drug trafficking conviction can derail a minor’s life. Even after serving time, having a felony record can affect college admissions, job opportunities, and even access to housing. The lifelong consequences of a conviction can severely damage a young person’s life.

Can Juveniles Avoid Adult Sentencing?

Yes, in some cases, the case may be kept in juvenile court, where penalties are less severe, focusing more on rehabilitation instead of punishment. However, in cases where a minor is charged with serious drug trafficking charges or is identified as a habitual offender, avoiding adult prosecution becomes more difficult. Working with a defense attorney who can negotiate for reduced charges or push for juvenile court instead of adult prosecution is imperative. This ensures that their records can be expunged later once they attain the age of majority.

Call an Orlando Drug Trafficking Lawyer Today

If your child has been charged with drug trafficking in Florida, contact our experienced Orlando drug trafficking lawyer at Joshi Law Firm, PA, as soon as possible to explore your options and protect their future.

Sources:

15thcircuit.com/sites/default/files/court-admin/juvenile-division/expunction-factsheet.pdf

volusiasheriff.gov/news/volusia-county-sheriff/video-17-year-old-drug-dealer-charged-with-manslaughter-in-fatal-fentanyl-overdose-of-deland-teen.stml?utm_source=chatgpt.com