Using marijuana may be relatively common for people in Tennessee, but it is still illegal for people to use it. As it is illegal for people to use it, in order to obtain marijuana people need to sell it illegally as well. There are also both federal and state laws prohibiting the sale of marijuana and people who are caught selling it could end up with federal charges against them.
People who are convicted of marijuana trafficking can face harsh penalties in federal court. The penalties depend on the amount people possess and the number of convictions people may have on their record.
Potential federal penalties for marijuana trafficking
- 1,000 kilograms or more or 1,000 plants or more – First time offense – 10 years to life in prison and a fine between $10 million and $50 million. Second time offense – 20 years to life in prison and a fine between $20 million and $75 million.
- 100 to 999 kilograms or 100 to 999 plants – first time offense – 5 to 40 years in prison and a fine between $5 million and $25 million. Second time offense – 10 years to life in prison and a fine between $8 million and $50 million.
- 50 to 99 kilograms or 50 to 99 plants – first time offense – up to 20 years in prison and a fine between $1 million and $5 million. Second time offense – up to 30 years in prison and a fine between $2 million and $10 million.
- Under 50 kilograms or under 50 plants – first time offense – up to 5 years in prison and a fine between $250,000 and $1 million. Second time offense – up to ten years in prison and a fine between $500,000 and $2 million.
These are very serious consequences, but people charged with marijuana trafficking in Tennessee, will only face these serious consequences if they are convicted. Being charged does not mean that people will be found guilty though. People are innocent until proven guilty and experienced attorneys may be able to protect people’s rights.