Drug Control: Better Coordination with the Department of Homeland Security and an Updated Accountability Framework Can Further Enhance DEA's Efforts to Meet Post-9/11 Responsibilities
Abstract
Given the global context of the war on drugs- coupled with growing recognition since September 11, 2001 (9/11), of the nexus between drug trafficking and terrorism- the mission of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and efforts to forge effective interagency partnerships and coordination are increasingly important. GAO was asked to examine, in the context of the post-9/11 environment, DEAs (1) priorities, (2) interagency partnerships and coordination mechanisms, and (3) strategic plan and performance measures. GAO reviewed DEA policy, planning, and budget documents and visited 7 of DEAs 21 domestic field offices and 3 of its 7 regional offices abroad- sites selected to reflect diverse drug-trafficking threats, among other factors. GAO also contacted other relevant federal agencies- including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)- and various state and local partner agencies. GAO recommends that the Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security take actions to enhance the effectiveness of (1) interagency partnerships involving DEA, ICE, and CBP and (2) the multiagency Special Operations Division and the OCDETF Fusion Center. DOJ agreed. DHS responded that discussions with DOJ are ongoing. DHS neither explicitly agreed nor disagreed with GAOs recommendations but suggested revisions to the wording, which GAO did not make.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- AD1179130
Entities
People
- Christine Davis
- Danny Burton
- Eileen Larence
- John Bagnulo
- Michele C. Fejfar
- Ryan Macmaster
- Sally Williamson
- Sean Lovitt
- Shannon Finnegan
- Willie Commons
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office