Drug Delivery or Distribution Charge FAQ
Charges of drug distribution or possession with intent to deliver are felony offenses in Pennsylvania and in most states across the country. Because the charges are felonies, they are obviously 
treated more severely in the criminal justice system, meaning these charges carry more severe sentences that often include jail time and fines. People that are charged with drug delivery charges have questions about the amount or type of evidence that is required for a prosecutor to obtain a conviction. For example, people often want to know how they can be charged with a drug delivery or distribution if the only evidence is the testimony of a confidential informant (CI). Many people mistakenly believe that a prosecutor needs direct evidence, such as a video or audio recording, in order to pursue charges. That is not the case. A prosecutor can pursue a prosecution based upon the testimony of only one person. Having only one witness means that the prosecutor does not have a very strong case because there is a limited quantity and quality of evidence, but the prosecutor can still take a delivery case to a trial based upon the testimony of a CI. A jury or judge then determines whether or not the evidence proved beyond a reasonable doubt that the crime occurred when finding the person guilty or not guilty. Other frequently asked questions include:
- How can I be charged with selling drugs when I did not receive any money?
- Can I get ARD or PWOV for a felony drug charge?
- How can they charge me with possession with intent to deliver when they only found a small amount of drugs?
- How can I be charged with a felony for growing marijuana for myself and did not intend to sell it?
- How can I be charged with drug delivery if the police do not have any drugs?