Drug Dealing and Distribution Crimes in Minnesota

Understanding drug crimes and their penalties isn’t always easy, especially when they vary from state-to-state. If you’ve been accused of a drug crime, we want to tell your side of the story. Contact us online to schedule a free consultation.

Most people don’t realize that, with the exception of certain marijuana offenses, the vast majority of drug crime convictions in Minnesota result in a felony.

If you’re charged with distributing or selling controlled substances, you could face anywhere from six months to 30 years in prison, as well as fines ranging from $10,000 to $1 million.

As harsh as those penalties sound, the consequences don’t end there; with a felony drug conviction, you may face social stigma, difficulty finding employment and the loss of several civil rights as well. Luckily, it doesn’t have to come to that.

When you partner with one of the experienced drug distribution defense attorneys at Toepfer at Law, you can trust that they’ll do everything in their power to fight for your future. When you’re ready to strategize, contact us to discuss your case. In the meantime, keep reading to learn about drug dealing and distribution crimes in Minnesota.

Were you or a loved one charged with drug dealing or distribution? Don’t gamble your future with a subpar attorney! Give us a call at (320) 497-4416 to speak to a legal expert today.

Drug Classifications in Minnesota

A drug distribution charge reflects both the type and quantity of the controlled substance you were allegedly selling. The more dangerous the drug and the larger quantity you were accused of having, the more serious the consequences of conviction. Minnesota law classifies drugs according to the following five schedules:

Schedule I. Considered the most dangerous class, Schedule I drugs are highly addictive and easy to abuse. They have no currently accepted medical use and include heroin, LSD, ecstasy and methamphetamine.
Schedule II. These drugs also have a high potential for abuse and include drugs like cocaine, oxycodone, fentanyl, Adderall and Vicodin.
Schedule III. Schedule III drugs have a moderate to low potential for addiction and include ketamine, anabolic steroids and testosterone.
Schedule IV. These have a relatively low potential for addiction and abuse and include Xanax, Soma, Valium and Ambien.
Schedule V. Schedule V drugs have the lowest potential for abuse and may include drugs like Lyrica and Lomotil.

There are many more controlled substances, including drugs, chemical compounds and direct precursors, that are considered scheduled drugs in Minnesota. You can find a complete list of controlled substances and their corresponding schedule in Minnesota Statute 152.02.

What Are the Penalties for Drug Distribution in Minnesota?

The penalty for drug distribution depends on a few factors, including the amount and type of drug you had in your possession at the time of your arrest. If you’re holding more than what is considered a personal amount, you’ll likely be charged with distribution rather than possession.

Here’s how drug distribution charges break down over five felony degrees:

Fifth-degree felony. This felony charge results from sale of any amount of marijuana over 42.5 grams or any Schedule IV drug. Charges carry a minimum probation period of one year and a fine up to $10,000.
Fourth-degree felony. This charge indicates the sale of any Schedule I, II or III drug, except marijuana, which can only bring about this charge if conducted in a school, park or public housing zone or if sold to a minor. Charges carry a minimum probation period of 12 months and a fine up to $10,000 dollars.
Third-degree felony. This charge results from the sale of any amount of narcotics, 10+ doses of hallucinogens, five or more kilos of marijuana or Schedule I or II drugs to a minor or anyone in the protected zones. Penalties include up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.
Second-degree felony. This charge is reserved for the sale of 10+ grams of any narcotic drug except for heroin, three or more grams of heroin, 50+ doses of hallucinogens, 10+ kilos of marijuana and Schedule I or II narcotic drugs to a minor or anyone in a protected zone. Maximum penalties include 25 years in prison.
First-degree felony. A first-degree felony charge for distribution results from the sale of 17+ grams of cocaine, any amount of methamphetamine, 10+ grams of heroin, 50+ grams of another narcotic, 200+ doses of hallucinogens or 25 kilos of marijuana. Maximum penalties include 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine.

As you can see, drug distribution charges are no joke. Even moderate distribution drug crimes can result in significant jail time and fines.

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Drug Dealing and Distribution Crimes in Minnesota

Drug Classifications in Minnesota

What Are the Penalties for Drug Distribution in Minnesota?

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