What does drug trafficking generally include under Missouri law?

Under Missouri law, drug trafficking encompasses the illegal sale and distribution of controlled substances. This definition aligns with the broader legal framework that targets the commercial aspects of drug offenses, prioritizing actions that contribute to the illegal marketplace of drugs. Drug trafficking typically involves substantial quantities of drugs and is often subject to stricter penalties due to its impact on public safety and health.

Possession of controlled substances, while a criminal offense, is classified separately from trafficking and generally refers to an individual having illegal drugs for personal use. The use of prescription drugs on its own does not constitute trafficking, as prescription medications are legal when obtained and used according to valid prescriptions. Similarly, while manufacturing drugs at home can be a serious offense, it more specifically relates to the production aspect of drug crimes rather than the commercial distribution and sale that define trafficking. Thus, the correct characterization of drug trafficking under Missouri law focuses specifically on the illegal sale and distribution of controlled substances.