Odessa Drug Trafficking Attorney

Arrested for Drug Trafficking in Odessa? Get Help Now

Drug trafficking is a significant issue in Odessa, Texas, with strict penalties enforced for those convicted. The complexities of state and federal regulations make it crucial to understand how these laws apply specifically in the Odessa area. In Texas, drug trafficking involves the manufacture, delivery, or possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance. The severity of charges can vary based on the type and quantity of drug involved, as well as previous convictions.

Odessa's location in the Permian Basin makes it a strategic point for law enforcement efforts aimed at curbing drug trafficking. As such, local authorities are vigilant, and penalties can often be severe, including substantial fines and lengthy imprisonment. Understanding these implications and having a seasoned drug trafficking attorney in Odessa, like those at Sarabia Law Firm, can make a significant difference in navigating these charges.

Don’t risk your future—speak with a dedicated Odessa drug trafficking attorney. Call (432) 224-8036 or contact us online now to arrange your free consultation and start building your defense.

What Constitutes Drug Trafficking in Texas?

Under the Texas Controlled Substances Act, drug trafficking generally involves the manufacture, delivery, or intent to deliver a controlled substance. It’s important to understand that a person can be charged with trafficking even without physically handing over drugs. Intent to deliver, often inferred from the presence of packaging materials, cash, or large quantities, is enough to escalate simple possession to a trafficking charge.

Common examples of actions that can lead to trafficking charges:

• Driving with a large quantity of narcotics across county or state lines
• Having scales, baggies, or packaging material with controlled substances
• Possessing large sums of cash in connection with drugs
• Being caught during a controlled buy or undercover operation
• Acting as a “mule” transporting drugs for someone else
• Manufacturing or cultivating drugs with the intent to distribute

Drug trafficking is classified based on the type of drug and the quantity involved. The penalty range increases dramatically with higher weights or more dangerous substances like methamphetamine, heroin, or fentanyl.

Some drug trafficking cases remain at the state level, but many are transferred to federal court—especially those involving interstate movement, large amounts of drugs, or organized crime networks. Federal charges often carry mandatory minimum sentences and are handled by agencies such as the DEA, FBI, or Homeland Security.

What are the Penalties For Drug Trafficking Convictions in Odessa?

​In Odessa, Texas, drug trafficking is a serious felony offense under the Texas Controlled Substances Act. Penalties vary based on the type and quantity of the drug, prior criminal history, and other factors.​

General Penalties

• State Jail Felony: For trafficking less than 1 gram of certain substances.
• Second-Degree Felony: For amounts like 1–4 grams of Penalty Group 1 drugs (e.g., cocaine, meth).
• First-Degree Felony: For larger quantities, such as 4–200 grams of Penalty Group 1 substances.
• Enhanced First-Degree Felony: For trafficking over 400 grams, punishable by 15 to 99 years or life imprisonment and fines up to $250,000.

Additional Consequences

• Asset Forfeiture: Seizure of property linked to drug trafficking activities.
• Federal Charges: If the offense involves large quantities or crosses state/national borders, federal prosecution may apply, leading to more severe penalties.
• Enhanced Penalties: Offenses near schools or involving minors can result in increased sentences.