A drug possession charge in the State of Florida can have serious consequences, but a federal charge such as drug trafficking or importation can result in even harsher penalties, including a long prison sentence. Because the stakes are so high, it is crucial for individuals facing federal drug charges to have a criminal defense attorney with experience in handling cases in federal court.
A former football player for the University of Florida is facing extremely serious consequences after pleading guilty to a federal drug charge. Reche Caldwell, a 35-year-old Tampa resident who also played in the NFL for six seasons, could be sentenced to a maximum of 20 years in federal prison.
The allegations against Caldwell date back to May, when, according to his plea agreement, he accepted a package containing 1.5 kilograms of the drug ethylone, commonly called “Molly.” The package was mailed from China.
The agreement also states that days later authorities intercepted another 1-kilogram package of ethylone in Atlanta, and that Caldwell had mailed that package from Tampa. Specifically, Caldwell pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute ethylone. The drug is technically known as a positional isomer of butylone.
Florida residents will undoubtedly want to follow this case as it moves to the sentencing stage.
Individuals accused of federal drug crimes can expect the prosecution to seek the harshest possible penalties. However, criminal allegations do not automatically lead to a conviction, and those facing federal charges have a right to mount a strong criminal defense.
Our drug trafficking defense overview has more on fighting charges in federal court.
Source: CBS DC, “Ex-Redskins Player Faces 20 Years in Prison on Drug Charges,” Oct. 2, 2014