Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) is a substance used to treat insomnia, clinical depression, narcolepsy, and alcoholism that is no longer legal. Often nicknamed the “date rape drug,” GHB is an extremely potent sedative that produces euphoric and calming effects in the user. At higher doses, it has potentially deadly side effects. In the mid-to-late 1990s, Florida police saw a rise in the use of GHB in dance clubs and rave parties. The drug’s effects, combined with the fact that it dissolves easily in liquids, led to its use in date rape crimes.
In Florida, any GHB-related offense will be taken seriously and penalized harshly. A GHB trafficking offense, in particular, may leave convicted individuals with a lengthy prison sentence, a permanent criminal record, and substantial fines. If you’re a Florida resident, tourist, or student who’s been arrested for GHB trafficking, it’s essential that you retain an experienced drug trafficking attorney as soon as possible. Fortunately, help is right around the corner. At The Umansky Law Firm, we strive to help our clients evaluate their options and ultimately reduce or eliminate the penalties associated with a conviction.
Florida Statute 893.135(1)(h)(1) defines GHB trafficking by the following terms:
“Any person who knowingly sells, purchases, manufactures, delivers, or brings into this state, or who is knowingly in actual or constructive possession of, 1 kilogram or more of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB)…or any mixture containing gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), commits a felony of the first degree, which felony shall be known as ‘trafficking in gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB)’…”
In other words, a GHB offense is considered trafficking if you possess, sell, purchase, manufacture, or deliver one or more kilograms. It’s important to note that the weight of GHB is determined not by the amount of pure GHB in the mixture, but rather by the aggregate weight of the product or substance. The penalties associated with a GHB trafficking conviction in Florida—which is labeled as a felony offense with a level eight or nine severity ranking—depend on the amount involved, your criminal history, and other factors. The penalties are as follows:
Additional penalties may include the suspension of any professional licenses, a permanent criminal record that can be found by anyone performing a background check, and a driver’s license suspension.
There are several possible strategies your lawyer may utilize to encourage prosecutors to reduce or completely eliminate the penalties associated with a GHB trafficking conviction. These strategies include:
If you’ve been charged with GHB trafficking or have questions about the crime, it’s important that you get in touch with an experienced Orlando GHB trafficking lawyer as soon as possible. A GHB trafficking conviction can follow you, limit your ability to work certain jobs, deteriorate your reputation, and shackle you with serious statutory penalties.
Florida has some of the toughest laws against drug trafficking in the country. If you have been arrested for GHB trafficking and need help protecting your rights, the expert legal team at The Umansky Law Firm can help. As former prosecutors and public defenders on a state and local level, our Orlando GHB trafficking attorneys can provide you with a sound strategy and a concrete defense based on years of experience working in the Florida criminal justice system. We understand the ins and outs of Florida drug laws and serve to protect our clients from further punishment and damage to their reputation.
With over 100 years of combined legal experience, our team has the time and expertise to launch an investigation into your case and the circumstances leading up to your arrest. We’ll work tirelessly to fight for your rights. Call or complete our online contact form to receive a free consultation.
The Umansky Law Firm Criminal Defense & Injury Attorneys
