Drug Trafficking Charges – Olin College of Engineering
Felony Drug Defense and Campus Disciplinary Representation – Massachusetts
Drug trafficking charges are among the most serious criminal allegations a student can face in Massachusetts. For Olin College of Engineering students, these cases often arise suddenly and can threaten your freedom, your education, and your future career.
Me and my team here at the Law Offices of Kensley Barrett represent college students accused of drug trafficking and drug distribution offenses. I defend students in Massachusetts courts while also guiding them through parallel Olin College disciplinary proceedings.
Wellesley, MA Office
572 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA 02482
Phone: 857.229.2442
Massachusetts Drug Trafficking Laws
Massachusetts drug trafficking laws are governed by M.G.L. c. 94C. Trafficking charges are based on weight thresholds, not just intent, and can apply even when drugs are not sold for profit.
Prosecutors look at:
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The type of controlled substance involved
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The total weight or quantity
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Alleged evidence of distribution, such as packaging, scales, cash, or digital communications
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Use of phones, payment apps, or social media
Even students who believe drugs were for personal use may face felony trafficking or distribution charges.
Trafficking Thresholds and Controlled Substances
Common substances involved in student trafficking cases include:
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Marijuana (large quantities or alleged distribution activity)
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Cocaine
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Fentanyl or heroin
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Prescription pills such as Adderall or Xanax without valid prescriptions
Each substance carries different weight thresholds and mandatory minimum penalties, making early legal intervention critical.
How Olin College Students Get Charged with Drug Trafficking
I routinely defend students whose charges stem from:
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Drugs discovered during dorm room searches or wellness checks
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Packages or mail intercepted by law enforcement
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Shared housing situations where ownership is disputed
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Text messages, group chats, or payment records interpreted as sales
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Informal sharing among friends that is treated as distribution
Many students are shocked to learn that sharing substances without payment can still result in felony charges.
Criminal Penalties for Drug Trafficking in Massachusetts
Drug trafficking is a felony offense with severe consequences.
Potential penalties include:
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Mandatory minimum prison sentences for many substances
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Lengthy incarceration depending on drug type and quantity
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Large fines and probation
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Asset forfeiture, including phones, vehicles, or cash
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A permanent felony criminal record
Cases may be prosecuted in Massachusetts District Court or Superior Court depending on the charge.
Olin College Honor Code and Drug Discipline
Olin College enforces strict drug policies under its Honor Code. Disciplinary action often proceeds separately from the criminal case and may continue even if charges are reduced or dismissed.
Possible academic consequences include:
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Immediate suspension or permanent expulsion
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Loss of campus housing or financial aid
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Conduct board hearings
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Long-term academic record consequences
The school may also cooperate with law enforcement during investigations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drug Trafficking Charges
Is sharing marijuana considered drug trafficking?
Yes. Massachusetts law allows distribution charges even when no money is exchanged.
Will I be expelled automatically?
Not automatically, but drug trafficking allegations can result in severe discipline. You have the right to a hearing and a defense.
Can trafficking charges be reduced to possession?
In many cases, yes. Reduction or dismissal may be possible depending on the evidence and how the case is handled.
Defense Strategies for Student Drug Trafficking Cases
Me and my team build aggressive defenses focused on:
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Challenging illegal searches of dorm rooms, vehicles, or packages
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Suppressing unlawfully obtained phone or digital evidence
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Disputing intent to distribute or ownership of substances
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Negotiating reduced charges, diversion, or favorable resolutions
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Coordinating criminal defense with campus disciplinary strategy
Our objective is always to minimize damage to your record and protect your education.
Why Olin College Students Choose the Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
Students trust me and my team because we offer:
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Focused defense for college and graduate students
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Extensive experience with Massachusetts drug laws
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Knowledge of campus disciplinary systems and procedures
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Strategic representation designed to protect your future
I understand what is at stake when a student faces felony drug charges.
Contact the Law Offices of Kensley Barrett Today
If you are an Olin College student facing drug trafficking charges, time is critical. Early legal action can make a significant difference in both court and on campus.
Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
Wellesley, MA Office
572 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA 02482
Phone: 857.229.2442
Call today to protect your record, your education, and your future.
