The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has requested an investigation by the U.S. Justice Department’s internal watchdog following claims from a whistleblower that DEA agents allowed large quantities of fentanyl pills to be distributed in New Mexico. This request follows an Associated Press report revealing that agents monitored but did not intercept shipments of the opioid to build larger criminal cases. DEA administrator Terry Cole emphasized the need for an internal probe due to public concern and stated that any necessary improvements would be implemented. The strategy of allowing drugs to “walk” has been criticized for potentially endangering public safety and possibly violating Justice Department rules. New Mexico’s governor has also called for a state investigation into the DEA’s actions.
QUESTION: How might the decision to allow drugs to circulate in order to build larger cases impact communities and trust in law enforcement?
DEA asks watchdog to investigate claims that agents permitted fentanyl to hit the streets
