Emerging Trends in Drug Crime Enforcement in Delaware

Modern approaches to drug enforcement have evolved and are evolving rapidly. What in the past used to be a matter of simple possession or street-level distribution has transformed into a complex network of investigations, often involving digital surveillance, multi-state coordination, and even the tracing of cryptocurrency. Anyone who is charged with a drug-related offense needs to understand these new trends. The stakes have never been higher.

Enhanced penalties for fentanyl

Among the most pressing issues in Delaware drug enforcement is the emergence of the drug fentanyl. A synthetic opioid, fentanyl, is 50 times more potent than heroin. It has become a major factor in the state’s opioid crisis. Law enforcement agencies have become much more aggressive in their prosecution of fentanyl-related charges. In some cases, individuals accused of selling fentanyl have been prosecuted under the state’s “kingpin” statutes.

Even if you’re caught with a small amount of fentanyl, it can trigger a mandatory minimum sentence under Delaware law. Prosecutors generally pursue distribution or trafficking charges when fentanyl is mixed with other substances. In some cases, the defendant may not have even known they were in possession of fentanyl. The penalties, however, remain the same.

Multi-state and federal investigations

Another major trend to be on the lookout for is increasing cooperation between state and federal authorities. Delaware’s location along the I-95 corridor can make it a hub for drug investigations. In many cases, these involve federal agencies like the DEA, Homeland Security, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. What began as a state charge can quickly become a federal one. This is especially true if there is evidence of interstate trafficking.

Drug cases often involve extensive surveillance. This includes wiretaps, GPS tracking, and social media monitoring. As a criminal defense lawyer, defending against these charges requires considerable experience and technical know-how. A seasoned Wilmington defense attorney can challenge how the information was obtained and whether law enforcement respected constitutional rules while investigating.

The role of cryptocurrency and digital evidence

Recently, investigators have begun tracking cryptocurrency transactions as part of drug trafficking cases. Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies can be used to purchase narcotics over the internet or to launder the proceeds from a drug sale. Delaware law enforcement is now working with federal authorities and blockchain analysts to trace the transactions.

This adds a new layer of complexity to drug prosecutions. Potential evidence can be gathered from digital wallets, exchange accounts, and encrypted messaging platforms. Your Wilmington criminal defense attorney is prepared to scrutinize methods used to collect and interpret this data.

Talk to a Wilmington, DE, Criminal Defense Lawyer Today 

Michael W. Modica represents the interests of Wilmington residents who are being charged with drug crimes. Call our Wilmington criminal defense lawyers today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin preparing your defense right away.