Federal Drug Enforcement and Supply Control Efforts

A GAO report showed that the drug supply reduction efforts have yet to achieve a well-integrated, balanced, and truly coordinated approach. To remedy the problems, the executive and legislative branches of Government must reach agreement upon and vigorously carry out a consistent national policy and support the legislation needed for achieving the desired results. Control of the United States borders is a complex and most difficult task that requires a comprehensive, coordinated effort by all segments of the border law enforcement community. Although recommendations have been made on ways to improve border control, the problem remains unresolved. There is also the problem that most mother ships are either foreign registered or stateless, and international treaties do not adequately deal with this high-seas-vessel problem. Incarcerating major traffickers for long periods and seizing their financial resources have not been accomplished to a sufficient extent. Many defendents who are released on bail continue their drug trafficking, and even when convicted, drug traffickers are often not effectively immobilized for long periods. A firm and clear policy is needed for Federal, State, and local law enforcement roles. While there is more and more dependence on State and local involvement in drug law enforcement, these authorities are allocating fewer and fewer resources to combating drug abuse. Internationally, increased commitment of other developed countries is needed if we are to have a greater impact on the problem. Nationally, someone is needed who has a clear delegation of authority from the President to monitor activities and demand corrective actions. Effective enforcement, crop eradication, and other controls will cause temporary disruptions in trafficking and drug use patterns, and will buy time to enable the Nation to concentrate on long-term solutions.