What is the difference between possession and trafficking?

Possession and trafficking of drugs are both serious offenses in North Carolina, and they have some similarities. Both involve the unauthorized possession, use, sale, distribution, and/or manufacture of a controlled substance. However, there is a clear difference between the two crimes. Possession involves the physical, actual possession of drugs, whereas trafficking involves the sale, distribution, and/or manufacture of drugs. Trafficking involves an element of intent to sell the drugs, whereas possession does not. Possession of drugs is usually charged as a misdemeanor in North Carolina, whereas trafficking is usually a felony. The penalties for possession of drugs vary depending on the type and amount of drugs possessed. Most possession charges carry punishments including community service, probation, jail time, and fines. Trafficking of drugs, on the other hand, is almost always a felony in North Carolina. Penalties can include long jail sentences and hefty fines. Some states also have mandatory minimum sentences for drug trafficking offenses, meaning that the judge must impose a minimum sentence even if the person is found guilty of a non-violent drug offense. In summary, the difference between possession and trafficking of drugs is that possession involves actual possession of drugs, while trafficking involves the sale, distribution, and/or manufacture of drugs. Possession is usually charged as a misdemeanor, whereas trafficking is a felony with much harsher penalties.

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What is the difference between possession and trafficking?

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