Florida’s “war on drugs” is something of a “cat and mouse” game. Law enforcement uncovers a new method of drug smuggling and uses its new-found knowledge to make as many busts as possible. However, the police are usually playing a game of “catch up,” as drug distributors find clever new ways to keep distribution channels open. The newest trend for Florida drug trafficking is to mail the marijuana, cocaine or oxycodone through the U.S. mail or private carriers such as FedEx or UPS.
According to the Orlando Sentinel, 434 pounds cocaine was confiscated in Florida during the first half of 2011. This shows a sharp trend upwards from the 657 pounds of cocaine that were intercepted during last year as a whole. The cocaine is often mailed in packages of one or two kilos at a time.
Broward County has been an especially heavy recipient of drugs through the mail. In 2010, authorities intercepted nearly 54,000 oxycodone pills and 13 kilos of cocaine, as reported by the Orlando Sentinel. As Florida seeks to shut down “pill mill” pain clinics and other common distribution channels for oxycodone (oxycodine, oxycotine), Florida law enforcement may expect continued growth in the mailing of “pain-killer packages.”
While it is especially difficult for authorities to arrest the sender of the packages, they have developed some sneaky ways of busting the would-be receiver. One North Lauderdale man signed for his package containing a kilo of cocaine, but the postal carrier was truly a disguised undercover agent who made an immediate arrest.
As Florida law enforcement, prosecutors and judges continue to aggressively pursue those who allegedly smuggle and possess marijuana, cocaine and oxycodone, it is crucial for the accused to contact a reputable Orlando criminal defense attorney. With so much at stake, it is important to get a knowledgeable lawyer who can help you develop a strong defense to contest your drug charges.
Andrew Moses
Andrew has been practicing criminal law his entire career. After graduating from law school he began working as an Assistant State Attorney prosecuting cases in Orange and Osceola Counties. During his time as an Assistant State Attorney, Andrew handled all types of cases ranging from misdemeanors to such serious felonies as drug trafficking and armed robbery. His experience as a prosecutor helped him gain perspective of the criminal justice system and how the government established its cases.
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