What Does Possession with Intent to Distribute Mean?

Possession with intent to distribute is a serious criminal offense under Pennsylvania law that refers to the act of having illegal drugs or substances in one’s possession with the intention to sell or distribute them to others. This charge is typically applied when the amount of drugs found or other circumstances suggest that the person had the intention to sell or distribute instead of possessing the drugs simply for personal use.

Allegations of intent to distribute can increase the severity of a criminal case significantly, so you need to present a strong defense in the face of such charges. If you were arrested or are already facing this charge, immediately seek representation from a skilled criminal defense attorney who can thoroughly analyze the details of the case, challenge any evidence obtained illegally, and protect your rights.

Do not hesitate to reach out to the Law Office of Stephen W. Grosh to speak with our Lancaster drug crime defense attorney now.

Understanding Possession with Intent to Distribute

When law enforcement suspects an individual to be involved in drug sales or trafficking, they may charge that person with possession with intent to distribute. This charge is more severe than simple drug possession.

The determination of intent is typically based on:

• The quantity of drugs found
• How they are packaged
• Possession of other items used for packaging, weighing, or selling drugs
• Any other evidence that suggests the drugs were intended for sale or distribution

Prosecutors can infer intent even if there is no direct evidence of a sale or distribution. For example, if a large quantity of drugs is found in an individual’s possession, along with scales, packaging materials, and large amounts of cash, prosecutors can use this circumstantial evidence to argue the person intended to distribute the drugs.

Increased Potential Penalties

Possession with intent to distribute can have severe legal consequences. Except for a few circumstances involving smaller amounts of marijuana or certain prescription drugs, these are usually felony charges, even for a first offense.

If convicted, you will face harsher penalties than simple possession charges, and these penalties may include:

• Imprisonment
• Thousands of dollars in fines
• Probation
• Mandatory drug testing and/or treatment
• A permanent criminal record

The severity of the penalties depends on factors such as the type of drugs involved, the defendant’s criminal history, and the presence of aggravating circumstances.

Pennsylvania takes drug crimes seriously, especially those related to drug trafficking, and the consequences can be costly for years to come. Always partner with an experienced Lancaster criminal defense attorney for your drug crime defense to minimize the consequences you experience.

Challenging PWID Charges

A skilled criminal defense attorney will closely examine the details of your case, challenging any evidence obtained illegally or through violations of your constitutional rights. They will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your arrest, the validity of the search and seizure, and the handling of evidence.

Additionally, your attorney will assess the prosecution’s case and explore all possible criminal defenses. They may argue that the drugs were solely for personal use, challenge the admissibility of certain evidence, or question the credibility of witnesses. Their goal is to create reasonable doubt and weaken the prosecution’s case against you.

Consult Our Lancaster Drug Crime Defense Lawyer Right Away

Contact the Law Office of Stephen W. Grosh to allow us to begin working on your defense as soon as possible. Our skilled criminal defense attorney is ready to provide a confidential consultation to discuss your case and find out how we can help. 

Call us today at 717-208-4599 or contact us online for the effective legal representation you deserve.