Inducing or Abetting a Minor to Sell or Distribute Controlled Substances

Inducing or abetting a minor to sell or distribute drugs is a crime governed by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 94C Section 32K. Under the law, known as the Controlled Substances Act, it is a felony to knowingly cause, induce or abet someone under the age of 18 to sell, distribute, possess with the intent to distribute, dispense, hold or deliver money for buying, making, mixing, delivering or distributing drugs.

When a defendant is accused of using a minor to distribute drugs, prosecutors do not even have to prove that the defendant knew that he was using someone under 18. However, when the defendant is accused of abetting (helping) the minor to distribute drugs, the prosecutor does have to prove that he knew the person was under 18. Additionally, if the case involves abetting, the prosecutor has to prove that the underage person distributed drugs and that there was an agreement (which can be either express or implied) between the defendant and the minor.

Punishment

Inducing or abetting a minor to sell or distribute drugs is a very serious charge. To say the least, prosecutors and law enforcement officials don’t take kindly to persons who exploit minors for drug dealing. If you have been charged with this crime, they will aggressively work to convict you. If they are successful, you are looking at a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in the state prison. This sentence could reach up to 15 years in the state prison and a fine of up to $100,000 (in addition to the mandatory minimum).

Speak With an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney Today at 617.492.3000 or 800.481.6199

If you have been charged with inducing or abetting a minor to sell or distribute drugs or any other crime, speak with an attorney at Altman & Altman LLP. At Altman & Altman, we have a team of highly-experienced and aggressive criminal defense attorneys. With more than four decades of experience, our attorneys are experts in all areas of criminal law. We are respected by fellow attorneys for our track record of success, and we are appreciated by our clients for the results and personalized attention that we give them.

Call the criminal defense attorneys of Altman & Altman at 617.492.3000 or 800.481.6199 toll-free, or contact us online for a free consultation. The sooner you call, the more protected you’ll be.