Pushing for Stronger DEA Presence in the Marianas

This week, I wrote to Acting DEA Administrator Derek Maltz to raise serious concerns about methamphetamine trafficking in the CNMI and the urgent need for stronger federal enforcement in our islands. Federal law already directs the DEA to assign appropriate personnel and resources to the central and western Pacific, including the CNMI, but right now we have only one permanent DEA officer assigned locally. That’s not enough. In my letter, I asked for detailed information on past support, current staffing decisions, and whether the Department of Justice will consider establishing a permanent field office in the CNMI. Our communities deserve the full protection of the law, and I will continue working to ensure the federal government meets its responsibilities.