The Role of the Reserve Components in the War on Drugs
Abstract
Military involvement in the drug war expanded with the passage of the Defense Authorization Act of 1988 and the subsequent Congressional appropriation of $300 million for funding interdiction and eradication operations. Since the active armed forces and their reserve components are constitutionally restricted from enforcing laws within the country's borders, domestic military support to civilian law enforcement agencies must be provided by the National Guard, which is not limited by the statutory restraints of other federal troops. This study examines the key legislative acts which led to the organizational structure of the present day Guard and explains the various statuses under which state troops can operate. It further points out the types of anti-drug transactions involving the Guard in the past decade and summarizes future plans for Congressional funds. The purpose of this report is to recognize potential problems and weaknesses and recommend solutions which will aid America in its struggle for a drug-free society. With adequate monetary allocations, proper training, and national support, the National Guard can supply military support to civilian law enforcement agencies within the Nation's boundaries. Keywords: Drug trafficking; Law enforcement; War on drugs.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 31, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA208666
Entities
People
- Homer Q. Dickens
Organizations
- United States Army War College