There are a number of criminal charges that an Arkansas resident may face if they are alleged to possess or sell prohibited substances. Whether their charges involve marijuana or cocaine, heroin or another kind of drug, the actions that they are alleged to have taken with regard to those drugs may impact the severity of the punishments they can face. For example, while drug possession charges are serious, drug trafficking charges may be considered felonies and subject to longer prison sentences.
One factor that may exacerbate an alleged drug crime is the use or possession of a firearm during the commission of the alleged crime. For example, if a person is accused of having a gun on their person when they allegedly went to sell an illegal drug, they may face an enhanced charge or additional charges because of the gun.
Having or using a gun during the alleged commission of a drug crime may impact a person’s future rights. They may be restricted in owning firearms in the future, or they may have to make disclosures about their use or possession of a firearm when applying for certain types of jobs. It is important that readers understand, however, that gun possession is not the only factor that may exacerbate a drug crime and that all alleged drug charges should be discussed with criminal defense attorneys.
When a person is charged with drug possession, trafficking or manufacturing, they must confront all of the facts that are relevant to their case. The existence of a firearm during an alleged crime is a serious matter that may affect how a person elects to prepare their defense strategy for trial.
