Drug conspiracy is a serious offense in Ohio that involves planning, agreeing, or cooperating with others to engage in illegal drug-related activities. Unlike other drug offenses, conspiracy charges do not require the actual commission of a drug crime—simply agreeing to participate in unlawful activities and taking a step toward fulfilling that agreement can lead to prosecution under Ohio Revised Code § 2923.01. Drug conspiracy charges are treated as severe threats to public safety and carry significant penalties, depending on the circumstances of the case.
Cincinnati Drug Conspiracy Defense Attorney
If you are charged with drug conspiracy, you need to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately.
The Wieczorek Law Firm, LLC, led by Mark Wieczorek serves all of Ohio, including Hamilton County, Butler County, Clermont County, Brown County, Highland County, Clinton County, Preble County, Scioto County, Greene County, Montgomery County, and Warren County, and Southern Ohio. They have vigorously defended clients against charges ranging from misdemeanor to felony charges. Call today at (513)-317-5987 for your free case evaluation.
Drug Conspiracy Overview
- Drug Conspiracy under Ohio Law
- Penalties
- Defenses
- Additional Resources
- Hire an Attorney for Drug Conspiracy
What is Drug Conspiracy in Ohio?
Drug conspiracy involves two or more individuals agreeing to commit a drug-related crime, such as manufacturing, trafficking, or distributing controlled substances. The statue states as follows:
(A) No person, with purpose to commit or to promote or facilitate the commission of aggravated murder, murder, kidnapping, abduction, compelling prostitution, promoting prostitution, trafficking in persons, aggravated arson, arson, aggravated robbery, robbery, aggravated burglary, burglary, trespassing in a habitation when a person is present or likely to be present, engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity, corrupting another with drugs, a felony drug trafficking, manufacturing, processing, or possession offense, theft of drugs, or illegal processing of drug documents, the commission of a felony offense of unauthorized use of a vehicle, illegally transmitting multiple commercial electronic mail messages or unauthorized access of a computer in violation of section 2923.421 of the Revised Code, or the commission of a violation of any provision of Chapter 3734. of the Revised Code, other than section 3734.18 of the Revised Code, that relates to hazardous wastes, shall do either of the following:
(1) With another person or persons, plan or aid in planning the commission of any of the specified offenses;
(2) Agree with another person or persons that one or more of them will engage in conduct that facilitates the commission of any of the specified offenses.
Some examples may include:
- Purchasing precursor chemicals for drug manufacturing.
- Communicating with co-conspirators about drug distribution plans.
- Transporting large sums of cash or drug-related equipment.
Penalties for Drug Conspiracy in Ohio
The penalties for drug conspiracy depend on the type and quantity of drugs involved and the severity of the planned offense:
Fourth-Degree Felony: Conspiracy to commit a minor drug crime, such as distributing small amounts of Schedule III, IV, or V drugs.
- Penalties:
- Up to 18 months in prison and
- Fines up to $5,000.
Third-Degree Felony: Conspiracy to distribute moderate amounts of Schedule I or II substances like cocaine or methamphetamine.
- Penalties:
- Up to 3 years in prison and
- Fines up to $10,000.
Second-Degree Felony: Conspiring to manufacture or traffic significant quantities of controlled substances.
- Penalties:
- Up to 8 years in prison and
- Fines up to $15,000.
First-Degree Felony: Large-scale drug conspiracies involving highly dangerous drugs, large quantities, or organized criminal enterprises.
- Penalties:
- Up to 11 years in prison and
- Fines up to $20,000.
Additional penalties may apply if the conspiracy occurred near schools, parks, or other protected areas or if the defendant has prior drug-related convictions.
Additional Consequences
A conviction for drug conspiracy can result in:
- A permanent criminal record.
- Loss of voting rights during imprisonment.
- Difficulty securing employment, housing, or professional licenses.
- Suspension of driver’s license.
Defense Against Drug Conspiracy Charges
Being charged with drug conspiracy does not guarantee a conviction. Several defenses may be used to challenge the charges:
- Lack of Agreement: Demonstrating that no agreement to commit an illegal act existed.
- Lack of Intent: Arguing that the defendant did not knowingly participate in the conspiracy.
- Insufficient Evidence: Proving that the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence to establish a conspiracy.
Additional Resources
- Ohio Revised Code § 2923.01 – The statute states drug conspiracy as being involved in the planning, agreeing, or cooperating with others to engage in illegal drug-related activities. Read more details about the statute here.
- Drug Crimes: Drug crimes in Ohio can include a variety of offenses that range from misdemeanors to felony charges. Read more about how the Wieczorek Law Firm can help you.
Hire an Attorney for Drug Conspiracy Charges in Hamilton County, OH
If you have been arrested for a drug crime in Ohio or suspect you are under investigation, do not attempt to fight the criminal justice system alone. The Wieczorek Law Firm can protect your rights and advocate for you. We have experience defending against drug-related charges and will work tirelessly to secure a favorable outcome.
The Wieczorek Law Firm, LLC, led by Mark Wieczorek serves all of Ohio, including Hamilton County, Butler County, Clermont County, Brown County, Highland County, Clinton County, Preble County, Scioto County, Greene County, Montgomery County, and Warren County, and Southern Ohio.
Call us today at (513)-317-5987 for your free case evaluation.