Many people understand that it is illegal for Utah residents to use, possess or sell illegal drugs like marijuana, cocaine or heroin. However, it is also illegal for people to sell or use prescription drugs without a prescription from a licensed doctor. The penalties for selling prescription drugs are similar to selling any other type of illegal drug and can be severe.
Recently, a Utah man was arrested on drug trafficking charges after police claimed that he was selling prescription drugs illegally. Police claim that the 24-year-old man was subject to a police investigation led by the Weber-Morgan Narcotics Strike Force, the Weber County Sheriff’s Office, the Ogden Police Department and the FBI. According to police, they used a wiretap to monitor 18 different deals between the man and others over a two week period.
According to police, the man was selling Percocet — also known as oxycodone — and other prescription painkillers for $20 a pill. He apparently sold between five and 20 pills per transaction. The man also purchased an ounce of cocaine during the investigation, police say. He is being held in Weber County Jail on $195,000 bond. As a result of the investigation, the man was arrested on 19 felony charges, including second-degree felony drug distribution and engaging in a pattern of unlawful activity — a first-degree felony.
Drug trafficking charges often result in more severe penalties than drug possession charges. These penalties can include large fines and long prison sentences. By challenging police conduct, negotiating with prosecutors and employing other criminal defense strategies, people may be able to reduce charges and the potential penalties.
Source: Standard Examiner, “Ogden man charged with making 18 drug deals in 18 days,” Tim Gurrister, July 11, 2014