United States Drug Enforcement Administration

Today, the Drug Enforcement Administration proudly marks 53 years of service to the American people. Since 1973, the DEA has worked to protect Americans from dangerous drugs and the criminal organizations that profit from them. 

This anniversary is an opportunity to recognize the successes and the sacrifices of our personnel, the commitment of our law enforcement partners, and the resilience of the communities we serve. 

From dismantling the Medellín and Cali Cartels to bringing cartel leaders like Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman and Rafael Caro Quintero to justice, pioneering the Kingpin Strategy, building an unmatched global enforcement network, disrupting the financial lifelines of transnational criminal organizations, and leading the fight against today's synthetic drug threat and terrorist drug cartels, DEA has spent more than five decades protecting Americans, strengthening global security, and advancing justice around the world.

While the drug threat continues to evolve, our mission remains clear: disrupt drug trafficking, prevent drug-related harm, and save American lives. Our agents, analysts, chemists, task force officers, and professional staff work tirelessly every day to carry that mission forward. 

As we mark this milestone, we reaffirm our commitment to enforcement, awareness, prevention, partnership, and service. Together with our partners and the public, we will continue to protect our communities, and work toward a nation free from the dangers of illegal drugs.