Online shopping greatly increased over the last year, due to the COVID pandemic. Many people have come to enjoy the convenience of having groceries and other household goods sent directly to their homes. But some people have been using a part of the internet called the “dark web” to buy and sell illegal drugs like meth.
What exactly is the ‘dark web’?
The dark web is a section of the internet that can only be accessed by using a certain browser. You cannot access the dark web with standard browsers like Google, Yahoo, or Bing. And the way that the dark web is set up, the websites hosted there have a higher degree of anonymity compared to the rest of the internet.
While the dark web has a reputation for being the Wild West of the internet, it’s important to understand that the dark web itself is not illegal. It is also not illegal to access the dark web, so long as you are not engaging in criminal activity. Not every site on the dark web is used for illegal purposes. However, because of the level of anonymity, illegal drug sales and the distribution of child pornography do take place there. Anyone who peruses the dark web would be wise to remember that if an activity is illegal in the “real world,” it is also illegal on the dark web.
Buying and Selling Drugs on the Dark Web
Certain sites on the dark web are used to buy and sell drugs, including methamphetamine. Sellers can work anonymously without showing their face, revealing their real name, or sharing their location. Sellers may also think that they leave less of a trail, so to speak, by sending packages through the mail. However, people in Texas can and do get caught selling drugs on the dark web.
In May 2021, a 61-year-old Arlington woman was sentenced to six years in federal prison for her role in helping her son sell meth on the dark web. She was charged with one count of possessing a controlled substance with intent to distribute for bringing packages containing meth to the post office.
No one should be fooled into thinking that selling drugs on the dark web is “safe.” Law enforcement is on the dark web, too. And the United States Postal Service (USPS) is committed to catching anyone who uses the mail to send illegal substances. Drug sellers may think that the mail is a foolproof way to send illegal items because they believe that the USPS cannot open or inspect packages. However, this is by and large a myth.
Can the United States Postal Service open my mail?
The short answer is, “Yes, sometimes.” While the USPS does not have carte blanche to open any package for any reason, there are circumstances where they have that right.
- Depending upon the method of delivery, the post office may open a package or letter to ensure that the correct postage was paid.
- If a package is deemed as “suspicious” it may be turned over to Postal Inspectors.
- So-called “dead mail” that remains unclaimed and abandoned may be opened.
What about private package carriers, like UPS and FedEx?
Private shipping companies and courier services set their own rules and regulations. For example, UPS states that the company “reserves the right to open and inspect any package tendered to it for transportation.”
What are the charges for mailing meth in Texas?
The laws concerning illegal drugs are discussed in the state’s penal code, Chapter 481. Texas Controlled Substances Act. Depending on the specifics of the case, drug charges for mailing meth could include:
- Manufacture Or Delivery
- Possession
- Possession With Intent To Deliver
- Use Of Child In Commission Of Offense, if a minor was in any way involved in the drug crime. For example, if a child was asked to bring packages containing meth to the post office.
Generally speaking, the sentences for Texas drug convictions are based on factors like the amount of drugs involved and whether the defendant already has a prior criminal record. Chapter 12. Punishments of the Texas Penal Code details the consequences for state felonies. Even a third degree felony conviction comes with at least two years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Not to mention, a felony record will follow the convicted person for the rest of their life.
How Mailing Meth and Other Drugs Can Result in Federal Charges
When meth is sold on the dark web and then mailed, these cases may not simply be state charges of drug possession or intent to distribute. Using the mail system and sending drugs to another state can result in federal drug charges. Such was the case with the Arlington woman that we mentioned earlier. The penalties are typically harsher for federal crimes.
Contact a Drug Charges Defense Attorney in Plano, TX
Mr. Kent Starr is a skilled and respected drug charges attorney serving the Plano, TX area. He’s been defending clients for over 20 years. He knows the tactics that the prosecution uses in these cases, and he knows how to best defend your case. If you’re facing criminal drug charges in Plano, it’s normal to feel uneasy and uncertain. Rest assured, Attorney Starr will fight for the best possible outcome for your case.
As of May 2021, Attorney Kent Starr has 210 Google reviews with a 4.9/5.0 rating. Google backs the integrity of their reviews, and routinely screens for spam and fake reviews. In addition to sharing his clients’ reviews, Mr. Starr is also happy to discuss the outcomes of any cases he’s handled that are similar to yours. You’ll quickly see that Mr. Starr has a track record of achieving a reduction in charges, acquittals, and going to trial if that’s what’s best for your case.
Plano County Bail Bondsman
In addition to being an experienced drug crime attorney, Mr. Starr is also a bail bondsman. If you or your loved one are in jail, one phone call saves you time and money. You can get out of jail and start your legal representation at the same time.
If you’ve been charged with a drug crime, including mailing meth sold on the dark web, you need the right attorney, right now. Contact Mr. Kent Starr today at (214) 982-1408 to learn more and to schedule your free consultation.
Related Articles
“Arlington woman gets 6 years in prison for mailing meth that her son sold on the ‘dark web‘,” The Dallas Morning News
