Drug charges often have may levels to them that increase the severity of the potential sentence. When it comes to cocaine in North Carolina, there are a few different situations that could occur when you face such charges that could increase your penalties.
FindLaw explains that there are three general categories of charges for cocaine: possession, selling and trafficking.
Possession
Possession of cocaine is often the least severe charge you can face. The basic charge may result in six to 12 months in jail. However, you may face more time if you have a large amount of the drug in your possession. You could face possession with the intent to sell charges for large quantities of cocaine.
Selling
Selling cocaine could get you up to 31 months in prison. It starts as a class G felony, but you could increase it to a class E felony if you sell within 300 feet of a school or to a person who is under the age of 16 or pregnant. Increases in your charges may also occur if you have a large amount of the drug.
Trafficking
Trafficking is one of the most severe drug charges that you can face. At a minimum, it is a class G felony with up to 51 months in prison as a potential sentence and a fine possible of up to $50,000. In some situations, it may be a class F felony with up to 92 months in prison and a fine up to $100,000. It may also end up as a class D felony with up to 222 months in prison and a fine up to $250,000. It depends on the amount of the drug involved in your situation.
Trafficking includes importing the drug into the country and transporting it in and around the country. It also includes the manufacturing of the drug.
