Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed March 22, 2018
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Most people are familiar with the term "trafficking" in the context of moving large quantities of illicit drugs, often from other countries and across state lines. Federal drug trafficking laws target the largest drug operations, often those active in multiple states. While most state criminal codes don't have designated drug trafficking laws, per se, the sale of illicit drugs is criminalized in a weighted fashion. In other words, someone who drives a van full of uncut cocaine across the border will face much stiffer penalties than someone selling a gram of cocaine on the street corner.
Indiana's drug trafficking laws fall within the context of the state's Uniform Controlled Substances Act, which classifies large-scale drug sales offenses as a serious felony. Keep in mind that an individual may be charged with both federal and state crimes for the same offense.
The following chart lists the highlights of Indiana's drug dealing and trafficking laws, including statute citations and penalties.
| Statute | Indiana Code Section 35-48-4-1 et seq. |
| Statutory Definition of Drug Dealing | A person who knowingly or intentionally manufactures; finances the manufacture of; delivers; or finances the delivery of [illicit drugs]... or possesses, with intent to [do any of the above] commits dealing in [drugs]. |
| Indiana Drug Dealing Charges, Per Category and Amount | Cocaine, narcotics (heroin, etc.), or methamphetamine:
All other schedule I (35-48-2-4), II (35-48-2-6), or III (35-48-2-8) drugs (apart from marijuana and its derivatives, or synthetic drugs):
Marijuana, hash oil, hashish, or salvia, pure or adulterated (35-48-4-10):
Schedule IV (35-48-2-10) drugs:
Schedule V (35-48-2-12) drugs:
|
| Additional Qualifying Element of the Offense | A person may be convicted of [drug dealing] only if there is evidence in addition to the weight of the drug that the person intended to manufacture, finance the manufacture of, deliver, or finance the delivery of the drug. |
| Penalties |
All felony sentences carry a maximum fine of $10,000. |
Note: State laws are always subject to change. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
In order to convict of drug trafficking in Indiana, the state must prove that you intended to sell or transport drugs in addition to providing evidence that you possessed a certain amount of drugs. If you've been arrested and charged with drug dealing in Indiana, it's best to contact a local drug crime lawyer who can help craft your defense and work toward the best possible outcome, whether it's an acquittal or a lighter sentence.
Meeting with a lawyer can help you understand your options and how to best protect your rights. Visit our attorney directory to find a lawyer near you who can help.
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