Advice during criminal investigations into fentanyl smuggling
If you have been released under investigation, we can provide advice and representation throughout the process. We know that the uncertainty of waiting to see whether you are charged with an offence can be stressful. We can take any possible steps to speed up the investigation and challenge the police’s investigation methods.
It is possible that the police or prosecuting authority (such as the National Crime Agency or regional organised crime unity) will contact you again to ask more questions about the alleged fentanyl smuggling. If this happens, get in touch with us as soon as possible for advice.
If the police or other prosecuting authority take any proactive steps, such as searching your home or seizing your property, it is also important to get in touch as soon as possible for advice because you have vital legal rights.
Court representation for fentanyl importation prosecutions
We regularly represent clients accused of fentanyl importation and smuggling at the Magistrates Court and Crown Court. Our team includes specially qualified court advocates and we also have strong links with some of the UK’s leading criminal barristers. So, we can ensure that you have the very best representation at trial.
Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (PoCA) proceedings
We can handle complex and high value cases involving proceedings under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, including:
- Confiscation proceedings
- Restraint proceedings
- Cash seizure
If you have had cash or assets seized or bank accounts frozen in relation to fentanyl smuggling and importation, we can provide specialist advice and take all possible steps to recover your assets and minimise your losses.
Common questions about fentanyl drug smuggling and importation offences
What is the law on fentanyl drug smuggling and importation?
There are several different laws that make fentanyl smuggling illegal. The Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 prohibits different classes of drugs with Class A being the most serious and Class C being the least serious.
Although it can be prescribed to treat chronic pain or used as an anaesthetic, Fentanyl is a Class A drug because it is judged to be extremely harmful when it is misused.
The law on importation and smuggling is found under the Customs and Excise Management Act 1979.
Why are the authorities cracking down on fentanyl importation and smuggling?
Fentanyl is said to be 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine so can put users at severe risk of overdose, especially when it is mixed with heroin or cocaine to be sold on the streets.
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) says that fentanyl has become much more widely available on the drugs market because of production in countries such as China and online sales on the dark web.
The National Crime Agency (NCA) also says that drug trafficking involving serious drugs like fentanyl also has direct links with violent and organised crime, such as use of firearms, gang feud knife attacks and exploitation of young people to traffic drugs across county lines.
For these reasons, the authorities take crimes involving Class A drugs such as fentanyl extremely seriously. The CPS recommends that the potency of fentanyl be brought to the court’s attention and also that prosecutors should use expert evidence to talk about the dangers of fentanyl. These factors could impact your sentence if you are eventually found guilty. So, having the best possible legal defence on your side is essential.
Who enforces fentanyl drug smuggling laws?
A number of authorities are responsible for catching fentanyl smugglers. The UK Border Force is responsible for securing the UK borders and carries out immigration and customs controls on goods entering the UK.
If the Border Force officers detect and seize fentanyl or other illegal goods at the UK borders, they may arrest or caution the suspect. The investigation will then usually be referred to the relevant authorities such as the police, regional organised crime unit or the National Crime Agency.
What are the penalties for smuggling or importing fentanyl?
The Sentencing Council guidelines set out the potential penalties for importing Class A drugs. The maximum sentence is life imprisonment with a recommended sentencing range of 3.5-16 years’ custody.
Contact Conspiracy Solicitor now for advice about fentanyl importation and smuggling
We understand just how stressful facing serious drug charges is and how worried you might be about how this will affect your life. Do not leave the outcome to chance – contact our criminal defence experts as soon as you can:
- Call 0333 009 5968 – for standard enquiries during office hours
- WhatsApp 07535 215140 – for 24/7 emergency support including police station representation
