Drug trafficker receives 15 years behind bars after deal busted

A drug user who relied on the trafficking of illegal drugs to make a living has been sentenced to 15 years behind bars, according to Yangpu District People’s Court.

The man, identified as Wang Xiaochun, started using drugs more than 20 years ago to relive pains triggered by asthma. He became hooked and engaged in drug trafficking as a way to satisfy his addiction.

He was detained for six months in 2010 for possession. Two years later he was jailed for two years and 10 months for the same crime, but time behind bars didn’t curb his addiction.

On June 20 last year, Wang attempted to sell 20.3 grams of methamphetamine, commonly known as ice or crystal meth, to drug user Wu Deping. As police had received a tip-off, the trade was stopped. At his home, police seized a further 29.73 grams of methamphetamine.

Investigation showed that 50.03 grams of methamphetamine was stored by Wang for sale. 

According to China's Criminal Law, punishment ranges from 15 years or more behind bars or the death penalty for the trafficking of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, or 1,000 grams or more of opium or heroin.