44 Pounds Of Fentanyl & Cocaine Found In Boynton Beach Bust

In early December 2023, an 18-month long investigation by the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBCSO) and the Boynton Beach Police Department (BBPD) led to the arrests of 16 people, all allegedly complicit in the trafficking of fentanyl and cocaine into Florida. With the evidence gathered, 20 firearms and 8 vehicles were seized, along with a cumulative 44 pounds of fentanyl and cocaine. While this is a major investigation, it shows just how seriously trafficking in fentanyl in particular is seen in Florida nowadays.

Heightened Danger With Fentanyl

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid, classed as a Schedule II drug and used legally for sedation and pain relief during surgery. In recent years, fentanyl trafficking has risen sharply in Florida (and many other states), and law enforcement is cracking down hard on those who possess, sell, or traffick the drug. While certain misinformation about fentanyl’s potency has been circulating, this does not mean that the drug does not pose a serious risk to those who consume it.

Because of Florida’s history with illegal drugs, any drug crime is taken seriously, but fentanyl is seen as so dangerous that state’s attorneys are even more vigilant about prosecuting these types of crimes. Drug offenses are seen as offenses against society in general, and protecting unsuspecting individuals is paramount. The 16 people arrested during the investigation will likely all face charges of trafficking in fentanyl, which is an automatic felony.

Take These Charges Seriously

Any charge of drug trafficking is a serious matter in Florida, but trafficking in fentanyl will almost certainly eliminate any option of a plea-bargain or alternative sentencing process. State law requires trafficking to be charged as at least a third-degree felony, and if someone is convicted, they will serve at least a mandatory minimum of three years in jail. While other states have jettisoned these requirements, Florida still observes mandatory minimum sentences for many drug crimes.

All this notwithstanding, you do have the right to present a defense, with the help of an attorney. It may be that law enforcement lacked probable cause to search the place where the drugs were found in your case; alternatively, you may not have exercised possession or control over the drugs. If reasonable doubt can be created, you cannot legally be convicted – but having legal help on your side can even the odds.

Contact A West Palm Beach Drug Trafficking Attorney

It will take some time to try the 16 people arrested in this months-long investigation. If you have been charged with trafficking fentanyl or any other drug, your case may be handled much more quickly, and it can be crucial to have an attorney on your side. A West Palm Beach drug crimes attorney from Perlet & Shiner, P.A. will help to protect your rights and make sure you get your day in court. Call our office today at (561) 721-0552 to speak to an attorney.

Source:

msn.com/en-us/news/crime/operation-big-boi-16-arrested-44-pounds-of-cocaine-fentanyl-seized-in-boynton-beach/ar-AA1leaan