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U.S. Federal Charges for Cannabis Trafficking Hit All-Time Low

By TG Branfalt | Tue / Mar 25th

The U.S. Sentencing Commission has recently reported a significant decline in federal charges for cannabis trafficking, reaching an all-time low. In the past year, fewer than 500 individuals faced federal charges for cannabis trafficking, marking a 93% reduction since 2012. This decline highlights a shift in federal priorities, potentially influenced by changing public perceptions and state-level legalization efforts.

According to the commission’s report, federal drug trafficking charges predominantly involved methamphetamine, accounting for 45.7% of cases. This was followed by fentanyl at 22%, powder cocaine at 19.4%, crack cocaine at 3.8%, and heroin at 3.3%. Cannabis-related offenses constituted only 2.6% of federal drug cases.

The average sentence for federal drug trafficking crimes was 82 months. Methamphetamine offenses carried the longest sentences, averaging 100 months, while fentanyl-related offenses resulted in 76-month sentences. Crack cocaine and heroin offenses had average sentences of 68 months and 66 months, respectively. Powder cocaine resulted in average sentences of 64 months, and cannabis offenses had the shortest average sentence at 36 months.

The report also examined the racial demographics of individuals sentenced for drug trafficking. Hispanic individuals made up 45% of those sentenced, followed by Black individuals at 28%, and White individuals at 24%. These demographics varied depending on the drug involved. Hispanic individuals were most commonly sentenced for powder cocaine and heroin trafficking (72% and 58%, respectively), while Black individuals were most frequently sentenced for crack cocaine trafficking (77%).

Nearly all of the 18,281 drug cases reported to the Sentencing Commission involved the manufacture, sale, or transportation of a drug. This data provides valuable insight into the current state of federal drug enforcement and highlights the evolving legal landscape surrounding cannabis in the United States.

As the legal status of cannabis continues to change, with more states adopting legalization measures, it’s essential to monitor how federal policies and enforcement practices adapt. This trend of decreasing federal cannabis trafficking charges may reflect a broader shift towards decriminalization and a focus on more harmful substances like opioids and methamphetamines.

For those involved in the cannabis industry, understanding these trends is crucial for navigating the complex regulatory environment and ensuring compliance with federal and state laws. As the industry grows, staying informed about legal developments will be key to success.

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