When officers find a large amount of drugs and money in a vehicle, what charge is typically applied?

In situations where officers discover a substantial quantity of drugs and money in a vehicle, the charge of possession with intent to distribute controlled dangerous substances (CDS) is generally applied because the circumstances strongly imply that the individual is not merely possessing the substances for personal use but rather has the intention to distribute or sell them. The large amount of drugs often indicates that the individual is involved in broader drug distribution activities, and the presence of cash is typically associated with drug sales, further supporting the suspicion of intent to distribute.

Law enforcement relies on this evidence to establish that the individual is operating beyond simple possession, signaling involvement in a more extensive drug trafficking operation. This differentiation is crucial within the legal framework, as possession with intent to distribute carries more severe penalties, reflecting the seriousness of the offense in comparison to personal possession alone.