Reduced Sentencing Law for Drug Crimes Involving Crack Cocaine

Retroactive changes in the sentencing law for Drug Crimes involving crack cocaine are now occurring as a result of the Fair Sentencing Act which was passed by Congress in 2010. This law lessened the sentencing for crack cocaine so that it would be similar to powder cocaine. This past summer, the U.S. Sentencing Commission decided to apply the changes retroactively to those who had already been convicted as well.

Inmates are now eligible for sentence reduction and almost 1,900 prisoners could see immediate release due to the change in sentencing. In total, the U.S. Sentencing Commission estimates that around 12,000 inmates could see their sentences reduced and an average of three years taken off their prison terms.

The changes affect crack cocaine cases that are prosecuted in Federal Court, with most states already having less severe punishments for the drug, and also eliminates the previously mandatory five-year minimum sentence for first time possession of crack cocaine.

If you, or someone you know has been charged with Possession of Crack Cocaine, Sale or Distribution of Crack Cocaine, Drug Trafficking, or any other Drug Crime, it is essential that you contact a Los Angeles Criminal Lawyer to discuss your rights. Even with reduced punishments, your future is at stake.