Jason Harwin interviews Michael Brown, a former Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agent and current global director for counter-narcotics technology at Rigaku Analytical Devices.

They discuss the significant impact of fentanyl in the US, the operations of drug cartels, and the implications for the UK.

Michael shares insights on law enforcement strategies, the importance of international cooperation, and the challenges of harm reduction policies. The conversation emphasizes the need for proactive measures to address the growing threat of synthetic opioids and the role of prescription drugs in the addiction crisis.

Takeaways

• Fentanyl is the number one strategic threat to the US.
• The origins of the fentanyl crisis are linked to prescription drug abuse.
• Cartels exploit prescription drug users to expand their market.
• The UK has seen an increase in drug-related deaths linked to synthetic opioids.
• International cooperation is essential to combat drug trafficking organizations.
• The precursor chemical supply chain must be degraded to hinder drug production.
• Harm reduction policies must be carefully monitored to avoid enabling drug use.
• The majority of individuals at safe injection sites do not seek treatment.
• Cartels are increasingly using powerful adulterants in drugs.
• The US must engage with China and Mexico to address precursor chemicals.

Sound Bites

• “Fentanyl is a major problem in the United States.”
• “The cartels are targeting prescription drug users.”
• “You have to degrade the precursor chemical supply chain.”

Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to Policing and Drugs
05:07 – Understanding Fentanyl’s Impact in the US
09:57 – The Cartels’ Operations and European Exploitation
15:03 – Law Enforcement Strategies Against Cartels
19:59 – Harm Reduction Policies and Their Implications
24:55 – Key Takeaways and Future Directions

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