Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (CDSA)

Possession for the purpose of trafficking (PPT) charges involve possessing controlled substances with the intention of distributing them. If you're facing PPT charges in Kingston, Napanee, Brockville, or Belleville, understanding the serious nature of these allegations and their potential consequences is essential.

What Is Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking?

PPT charges arise when police believe you possessed drugs intending to traffic them, even if no actual sale occurred. The Crown must prove:

• You possessed the controlled substance
• You intended to traffic the drugs (sell, give, transport, or deliver them)

Trafficking under the CDSA includes selling, giving, transporting, or delivering controlled substances—or offering to do so. Even giving drugs to friends without payment constitutes trafficking.

Evidence Supporting PPT Charges

Police and Crown prosecutors rely on various indicators suggesting trafficking intent:

Quantity: Large amounts of drugs beyond typical personal use

Packaging: Multiple packages, pre-measured amounts, baggies, scales, cutting agents

Cash: Large amounts of money, particularly in small denominations

Communications: Multiple cell phones, text messages discussing drug transactions, customer lists

Paraphernalia: Debt records, ledgers, packaging materials

Expert Evidence: Police officers may testify about typical personal use amounts versus trafficking quantities

The totality of circumstances determines whether possession was for personal use or trafficking purposes.

Moving Forward

Possession for the purpose of trafficking charges carry serious mandatory minimum sentences in many circumstances, often resulting in federal imprisonment. These charges are fundamentally different from simple possession, with dramatically higher stakes and limited sentencing options due to mandatory minimums.

If you're facing PPT charges in Eastern Ontario, understanding the specific evidence against you, whether mandatory minimums apply, available defences, and the range of potential outcomes is essential to addressing these serious allegations effectively.