DEA INVESTIGATION LEADS TO DRUG BUSTS IN 79 AMERICAN CITIES

Arrests also made in Latin America and Europe; 3,780 suspects arrested and 375,000 pounds of drugs seized

Unfortunately, although this is a significant victory in the War on Drugs, the insatiable appetite of Americans for illegal drugs will ensure the continuing flow of controlled substances across our porous borders. But that does not mean the War on Drugs is a failure. Sure, the flow of drugs continues unabated, but without the War on Drugs, there would be so much more contraband available and it would also be much cheaper on the streets.

DRUG CARTEL PROBES RESULT IN 3,780 ARRESTS
The probes reached into 79 U.S. cities and points in Central America, Europe, Mexico and South America

Associated Press
December 7, 2012

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration says a two-year series of investigations targeting the Sinaloa and Juarez drug cartels and violent street gangs has resulted in 3,780 arrests and the seizure of some 375,000 pounds of drugs.

The probes reached into 79 U.S. cities and points in Central America, Europe, Mexico and South America.

The investigations were part of Project Below the Beltway. DEA administrator Michele Leonhart says they were carried out by local, federal and international law enforcement and have weakened the cartels and their gang associates.

Investigators seized $186 million in drug money in the initiative. Internal Revenue Service chief Richard Weber says the agency is still pursuing money laundering charges against narcotics traffickers.

The drugs seized in the law enforcement effort included cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin and marijuana.