DEA is Proud to Celebrate National Forensic Science Week
No DEA investigation is complete without the science behind it.
In cases against cartel kingpins like El Chapo, Frank Lucas, and Pablo Escobar - DEA's forensic scientists have been at the center of history's most high-profile investigations.
But our mission goes far beyond those headlines.
DEA labs unlock evidence from cell phones to identify traffickers in overdose deaths. We seize millions in cryptocurrency used to launder drug profits. We connect high-value cartel targets to seized evidence through fingerprints. And we identify emerging synthetic drugs before they spread through our communities.
Forensic science turns DEA evidence into intelligence.
It shows us how the drug landscape is changing—what's new, what's lethal, where it's coming from, and how it's made. This work strengthens our cases in court, supports legislative efforts like the TRANQ Act and HALT Fentanyl Act, and helps us save lives.
On September 15th, meet our scientists at the DEA Museum. Throughout the week, tune in to DEA social media for live Q&As with our experts.
And on September 19th, join us at DEA Headquarters in Arlington for the Forensics Festival - a hands-on look at the science that drives our mission.