NCJ Number
126735
Date Published
1987
Length
140 pages
Annotation
This report documents Federal drug law enforcement achievements in 1986, focusing on functions, rather than individual agencies. The major strategies for reducing drug trafficking and production include investigation and prosecution, interdiction, international drug control, domestic cannabis eradication, regulation of the legitimate drug industry, and intelligence.
Abstract
The investigation and prosecution strategy was intensified in 1986, as arrest and conviction surpassed previous levels. Some of the investigative techniques used included electronic surveillance, witness protection, asset forfeitures, investigations of money laundering and other financial activities, and tax assessments. Federal agencies also conducted investigations into drug-related firearms and explosives incidents and corruption, seized clandestine laboratories, carried out domestic drug removals, and apprehended fugitives. The Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force holds many of these accomplishments to its credit. The progress of the interdiction strategy can be measured in seizures of illegal drugs; other elements discussed in the report include Department of Defense support and special operations. Programmatic and diplomatic progress was recorded in the arena of international drug control through regional control efforts, development assistance, drug awareness activities, and international cooperative efforts. According to the report, the strategy on domestic cannabis eradication was successful according to virtually every measurement. Domestic diversion investigations, special domestic operations, international diversion activities, controlled substance analogues, and seminars and training programs are components of the strategy on diversion control. Finally, agencies increased their intelligence sharing efforts; two activities in this field relate to collaborative efforts coordinated through INTERPOL and improvement of secure communications networks. The report also discussed legislative developments, the role of law enforcement in reducing the demand for illicit drugs through prevention and education, and law enforcement training. 47 figures