Attorney General Merrick B. Garland recently addressed the 2024 Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Family Summit, focusing on efforts to combat the opioid crisis in the United States. During his remarks, Garland emphasized the commitment of the Department of Justice (DOJ) to support education, awareness, prevention, and treatment programs related to substance abuse.
Garland expressed gratitude to DEA leadership and acknowledged the families affected by the overdose epidemic. "Your presence today is an act of love for those you have lost," he stated. He assured attendees that they are not alone in their fight against addiction and substance abuse.
The Attorney General highlighted three key areas where the DOJ is concentrating its efforts: raising awareness about synthetic opioids like fentanyl, supporting those struggling with addiction through various programs, and bringing drug traffickers to justice. He noted that many individuals unknowingly consume fentanyl-laced pills, which can be deadly even in small amounts.
"Every day, the extraordinary men and women of the DEA... work closely with their state and local partners to seize deadly drugs," Garland said. In 2024 alone, over 47 million fentanyl pills were seized by DEA agents.
The DOJ has allocated more than $308 million in grant funding for Fiscal Year 2024 to support prevention, treatment, and recovery services. These grants will aid treatment courts, residential programs, prevention services, and other initiatives aimed at reducing recidivism.
Garland also discussed ongoing efforts to dismantle major drug cartels such as Sinaloa and Jalisco. The DOJ has extradited over 50 cartel members from Mexico since 2021. Recent arrests include high-profile figures like El Menchito from the Jalisco Cartel and Joaquin Guzman Lopez from Sinaloa Cartel.
The department is targeting every level of cartel operations worldwide. Garland mentioned indictments against China-based chemical companies accused of supplying precursor chemicals used in manufacturing fentanyl.
"We promise that we will not stop working until all those responsible for the deadly fentanyl epidemic face justice," he affirmed.
As Garland's tenure as Attorney General nears its end, he praised the continued dedication of DEA personnel committed to saving lives amid this crisis. "Thank you again for being with us today," he concluded.