Illinois authorities filed felony charges against a Bloomington man for distribution of cocaine, according to an article by The Pantagraph.
According to official reports, one count involved the distribution of cocaine in an amount between one and 15 grams. The other count involved the distribution of cocaine in an amount of less than one gram.
At this point, the Bloomington man has paid $50,000 to secure a personal recognizance bond. While this man awaits his arraignment on February 19, it seems prudent to review Illinois laws against and penalties for the distribution of cocaine.
Illinois Laws Against Distribution of Cocaine
As detailed in 720 ILCS 570/401, it is unlawful to manufacture, distribute, or otherwise attempt to transfer possession of controlled substances. In this context, the term controlled substance refers to many illegal drugs, including those classified in Schedule II like cocaine.
On a related note, it is also illegal to possess a controlled substance with the intent to manufacture or distribute. This offense is referred to generally as possession with intent to distribute. It is punishable in the same way as completed distribution crimes. So a person in possession of cocaine who demonstrates an intent to distribute can face the full penalties under the law, even if the distribution crime is unsuccessful.
Illinois Penalties for Distribution of Cocaine
Section 401 also establishes a multifaceted penalty structure for distribution crimes involving controlled substances, including those classified in Schedule II like cocaine. For the most part, this penalty structure fluctuates based on the type and quantity of controlled substance in question.
Distribution or possession with intent to distribute offenses involving:
- Between one and 15 grams of cocaine — Result in Class 1 felony charges with the possibility of four to 15 years in prison and up to $250,000 in criminal fines;
- Between 15 and 100 grams of cocaine — Result in felony charges with the possibility of six to 30 years in prison and up to $500,000 in criminal fines;
- Between 100 to 400 grams of cocaine — Result in felony charges with the possibility of nine to 40 years in prison and up to $500,000 in criminal fines;
- Between 400 to 900 grams of cocaine — Result in felony charges with the possibility of 12 to 50 years in prison and up to $500,000 in criminal fines; or
- 900 or more grams of cocaine — Result in felony charges with the possibility of 15 to 60 years in prison and up to $500,000 in criminal fines.
Do You Need Legal Help?
No matter what the criminal offense, all charges are serious. A sound strategy and an aggressive defense are essential for a positive outcome. To protect your rights in such situations, it is highly advisable to retain legal counsel from an experienced criminal defense attorney.
The Prior Law Firm in Bloomington, Illinois, has proven experience in matters of criminal defense. If you need legal help with criminal defense, contact us today for a free consultation. You can reach The Prior Law Firm by phone at (309) 827-4300, email at johnprior@thepriorlawfirm.com or by completing an online form.