Drug Enforcement Agency

Drug Enforcement Administration (often abbreviated as DEA) is a federal law enforcement agency under the United States Department of Justice, tasked with combating drug trafficking and distribution within the United States.

History

The DEA was established on July 1, 1973, by President Richard Nixon through an executive order. The agency was formed by merging several existing federal agencies involved in drug control to create a single, unified command to combat "an all-out global war on the drug menace."

Structure and Operations

The DEA is headed by an Administrator of Drug Enforcement appointed by the President of the United States and confirmed by the Senate. The Administrator is assisted by a Deputy Administrator, the Chief of Operations, the Chief Inspector, and several assistant administrators overseeing various aspects of the agency's responsibilities.

The DEA conducts criminal investigations, known as "cases," into suspected drug trafficking, smuggling, and usage within the United States. It also works with other countries to help combat international drug trafficking and to enforce drug laws.

Criticisms and Controversies

The DEA has been the subject of numerous criticisms and controversies over the years. These have included allegations of corruption, excessive use of force, and a focus on enforcement rather than prevention and treatment.

See Also

• War on Drugs
• Federal Bureau of Investigation
• United States Department of Justice