In Indiana, the legal landscape can be quite intricate, especially when it comes to criminal defense. One area that requires a keen understanding is the statute IC 35-44.1-3-5, which pertains to trafficking with an inmate and carrying a deadly weapon into a correctional facility. At B. Hicks Law, we specialize in navigating Indiana's complex legal system and are here to break down these laws, explaining the potential consequences and the importance of having a skilled attorney on your side.
Trafficking with an Inmate: A Closer Look
Trafficking with an inmate, as defined in IC 35-44.1-3-5, refers to the act of knowingly or intentionally delivering, carrying, or receiving articles into or out of a penal facility or juvenile facility without the prior authorization of the facility's authority. This offense is considered a Class A misdemeanor unless specific circumstances apply.
The gravity of the offense escalates to a Level 5 felony when:
The article being trafficked is a controlled substance, a deadly weapon, or a cellular telephone or other wireless or cellular communications device.
The offender is an employee of the Indiana Department of Correction or a penal facility.
Penalties for Trafficking with an Inmate
If the person committing the offense is an employee and the article involved is a cigarette or tobacco product, the court can impose a fine ranging from $500 to $5,000, in addition to any term of imprisonment.
If the article trafficked is a cellular telephone or other wireless or cellular communication device, a Level 5 felony conviction may result in a fine ranging from $500 to $10,000, along with any imprisonment as per IC 35-50-2-6(a).
Carrying a Deadly Weapon into a Correctional Facility
IC 35-44.1-3-5 also addresses the offense of carrying a deadly weapon into a correctional facility. This is a Level 5 felony, and it involves knowingly or intentionally possessing, carrying, or causing a deadly weapon to be brought into a penal facility or juvenile facility without the prior authorization of the facility's authority.
The Expertise of B. Hicks Law
Understanding Indiana's complex criminal laws and potential consequences can be challenging. Whether you're facing allegations related to trafficking with an inmate or carrying a deadly weapon into a correctional facility, the guidance of an experienced criminal defense attorney is crucial. At B. Hicks Law, we have a deep understanding of Indiana's legal system and are dedicated to providing top-tier legal representation.
Our team will carefully review the specific circumstances of your case, explore all available defenses, and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
In the realm of criminal defense, it's essential to comprehend the intricacies of Indiana's laws, such as IC 35-44.1-3-5, which covers trafficking with an inmate and carrying a deadly weapon into a correctional facility. If you're facing legal challenges related to these offenses, B. Hicks Law is here to help. Our experienced team of criminal defense attorneys is committed to safeguarding your rights and seeking the best possible resolution for your case. Contact us today for a consultation, and let us put our expertise to work for you.