Importing illegal drugs into Canada carries significant penalties including substantial fines and lengthy jail time. In addition, being convicted of importation carries with it a lifetime ban from travelling to the United States, among other countries. An individual may be convicted of importing drugs into Canada even if they did not personally transport the drugs across the border. Proof that the accused caused the drugs to be brought into the country is sufficient grounds for an importation conviction.
The most common controlled substances imported into Canada are:
- Marijuana
- Cocaine
- Heroin
- GHB
- Ecstasy
- Oxycodone
- Fentanyl
To be convicted of drug importation, the prosecutor must prove several elements including that the accused knew he or she was in possession of the drug and that the drug is in fact a controlled substance. If the individual unknowingly brought the drugs into the country, they cannot be convicted of importation because they did not possess the requisite knowledge that they were importing a drug.
Drug importation is an incredibly complex area of law often involving wiretap, confidential informants and Charter issues relating to the law on search and seizure. Due to its complexity, it is important to have a highly skilled defence lawyer by your side. Cory Wilson has experience representing individuals charged with drug importation and is committed to an unwavering defence of such charges.
Call Us To Arrange A Confidential Consultation
To speak with Cory Wilson or arrange a free, no-obligation consultation, call 403-978-6052 or email us here.
Cory Wilson is a criminal defence lawyer based in Calgary. If you have been charged with a criminal offence or are a suspect in a criminal investigation, call today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
