What is the Kentucky state and Federal Statute of limitations for the importation into the US of drugs?

Asked over 1 year ago - Tompkinsville, KY

I have a friend who imported 125 grams of ephedrine into the US in 2010. Is he still prosecutable under either Kentucky State or Federal law?

Attorney answers (3)

  1. Frank Mascagni III

    Contributor Level 20


    Lawyers agree

    Answered . There is no statute of limitations governing felonies in the state of Kentucky. The governing statute is KRS 500.050:

    Kentucky Revised Statutes



    Current through Chapter 162, with the exception of Chapter 1, of the 2012 Legislative Session

    § 500.050. Time limitations





    Cite as KRS 500.050

    History. Effective: July 15, 2008

  2. Robert David Richman

    Contributor Level 16


    Lawyers agree


    Answered . The federal statute of limitations is 5 years. That period is tolled for time the defendant is outside the U.S.

    This answer is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as the practice of law in any... more
  3. Joshua Sabert Lowther


    Contributor Level 17


    Lawyers agree


    Answered . 18 USC 3282 requires the federal government to prosecute a drug crime within 5 years from the date of the offense, with limited exceptions. If the defendant was outside of the US or a fugitive from justice, the time limit is tolled during that period. Furthermore, if the offense is charged as a part of a conspiracy, the time limitation does not begin until the defendant withdraws from the conspiracy (legal phrase), the conspiracy ends or its objective is achieved.

    Joshua Sabert Lowther, Esq.

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