Arrested for Drugs at JFK Airport

As one of the most hectic airports in the nation, JFK International Airport is subject to a high level of security. Due to its considerable number of travelers, TSA agents are aggressive in screening travelers for contraband, including drugs. It is quite a common occurrence for travelers to be apprehended and charged with drug possession at JFK airport following a security screening or the revelation by police dogs that an individual is carrying a controlled substance.

If you are ever accused of drug possession, you could suffer severe damage to your reputation. And if you are convicted, you may be liable for hefty fines, imprisonment, probation and other penalties.

In cases related to marijuana, thirty-nine states allow people to legally use medical marijuana for various ailments, such as chronic pain, anxiety disorders, or stress. However, it is illegal to fly with marijuana in carry-on or checked luggage in some states. In the state of New York, effective March 31, 2021, it is no longer a crime to smoke or possess limited amounts of cannabis in New York.

Nevertheless, some passengers, particularly on domestic flights, risk traveling with marijuana. TSA agents will allow a person to carry-on three ounces of cannabis and twenty-five grams of cannabis concentrate. However, traveling from state to state may vary. If you or someone you know plans to travel to a state where marijuana is illegal, they may face charges and have to pay fines. Each state’s laws and each person’s situation is different, which is why it’s best to speak with an experienced New York drug possession defense attorney as soon as possible.

One incident in which persons were arrested for drug possession at JFK International Airport occurred on March 24, when over $1 million worth of heroin was transported to the airport. Two men from New York used a dog to assist them in concealing 10 bricks of heroin in the false bottom of a crate sent from Puerto Rico to JFK. However, police were able to seize over 10 kilograms of heroin hidden in the crate. Both men face charges of drug possession and conspiracy. Bail was set at $500,000 bond or $250,000 cash for each defendant and if they are convicted, they could spend a maximum of 20 years in prison.

If you are facing arrest for drug possession at JFK International Airport, call the airport criminal defense attorneys at Brill Legal Group. They will advocate zealously on your behalf in order to have the charges reduced or even dismissed.