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The original documents are located in Box 10, folder "Drug Abuse (1)" of the James M.
Cannon Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Copyright Notice
The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of
photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. Gerald Ford donated to the United
States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections.
Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public
domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to
remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid
copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Digitized from Box 10 of the James M. Cannon Files at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library
[1975]
DRUG ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATION
REGION 5
DRUG
AVAILABILITY/TRAFFICKING
PROFILE
FORD
Miami Regional Office
8400 Northwest 53 Street
Miami, Florida 33166
I. INTRODUCTION
A. Geography
B. Organized Crime
C. Drugs/Arms Trafficking
11. DRUG AVAILABILITY
A. Heroin
B. Cocaine
C. Dangerous Drugs
D. Marihuana
111. DRUG TRAFFICKING
A. International Heroin Trafficking
B. Domestic Heroin Trafficking
C. Cocaine Trafficking
D. Dangerous Drugs
E. Marihuana
FORD LIBRARY is 0788
I.
INTRODUCTION
A.
Geography
The geographic area over which Region 5 has arrest jurisdiction includes
the States of Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina, the Commonwealth
of Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The most surprising statistic concerning Region 5 is the length of its
tidal shoreline - 13,646 miles - excluding Puerto Rico and the Virgin
Islands. This tidal shoreline is approximately twice the combined
shoreline of the west coast of the United States (7,863 miles) and
slightly less than the combined shoreline of Regions 1, 2, 3, and 4 --
16,807 miles running from North Carolina to Maine. This tidal shoreline
is a major asset to the smuggler -- permitting any of the 662,112
privately registered pleasure boats within the Region to off-load
contraband with little fear of discovery.
The general topography of Region 5 is another asset to the smuggler,
offering many miles of undeveloped flat terrain and little used roadways
which can be used to land aircraft. There are in excess of 16,000
privately registered aircraft in Region 5 -- 9,138 in Florida alone. The
Federal Aviation Administration, Miami, recognizes slightly more than
250 registered airports in the State of Florida - that figure includes
commercial airports such as Miami International and private landing
strips located on farms and ranch land throughout the State. The FAA
reports that even though the State of Florida requires a landing strip to
be registered, there are literally dozens of unregistered landing strips
capable of servicing C-46 and DC-3 aircraft. Among the 250 plus
registered airstrips are several 7000 foot unmanned and abandoned
military landing strips that have shown obvious use in recent months.
Miami International Airport handles more import/export cargoes than
any other airport in the United States and is second only to New York's
JFK in international passenger traffic, with approximately 4109
international passenger arrivals daily. That adds up to approximately
one and a half million foreign arrivals per year.
1
The population of Region 5 is 18,468,000. There are thirteen major
metropolitan areas, ranging in size from 250,000 to 1,748,000. With an
assigned special agent strength of 141 operating out of eleven offices, the
population outnumbers us at 131,000 to one. (130,978 to 1 to be exact), and
we have approximately 202 computer (NADDIS) identified violators for
every one special agent.
B. Organized Crime
South Florida is recognized as a significant Organized Crime area.
Specifically, the Hollywood/Fort Lauderdale metropolitan area has been
dubbed "New Jersey South". Although members of all major "families"
are well represented in South Florida, the predominant influence
exerted on Florida's east coast is by member of the Genovese family
from New York and New Jersey. The Gulf Coast of Florida is the
territory of the Santo Trafficante family. Organized Crime exhibits
considerable influence in the area of drug enforcement. The classic
racketeering methods employed within Region 5 are:
Extortion and strong arm tactics, forcing drug violators to
surrender drugs, money, and contacts to mob control - - this
method includes murder of informants and witnesses.
Corruption in the form of attorney's speculating in the drug market
and advising principals in large drug smuggling efforts. Police and
public officials accepting bribes, payoffs, and some who are
directly involved in the distribution of drugs.
Loansharks financing drug purchases.
Gambling casino's laundering profits from drug investments.
Infiltration of legitimate businesses to enhance the illegal
importation and large scale drug distribution networks - for
example, many companies importing fruits from Central and South
America are fronts for Organized Crime.
C. Drugs/Arms Trafficking
There have been an increasing number of intelligence reports which
indicate that drugs - especially cocaine - are being paid for by weapons
rather than money. The report links a well documented Organized
Crime figure in Milwaukee with a Hialeah, Florida violator in arms for
drugs trading, specifically the 308 NATO defense weapon for Mexican
heroin. They allegedly receive $2,000.00 worth of drugs for every
weapon delivered versus a cash exchange of $1,200.00 per weapon. We.
have also received intelligence indicating that several Florida based
violators have also exchanged weapons for marihuana and cocaine in
Colombia, Honduras, and Mexico.
2
II.
DRUG AVAILABILITY
For the purpose of this briefing, drugs in the illicit market have been placed
in 4 categories - heroin, cocaine, dangerous drugs, and cannabis. The heroin
category contains heroin and other opiates. The cocaine category contains
all forms of cocaine. The dangerous drugs category contains all controlled
substances including stimulants, hallucinogens, depressants, and
pharmaceutical synthetic narcotics. The cannibis category includes
marihuana, hashish, and hashoil.
A. Heroin
Availability of heroin throughout Region 5 is and has been adequate to
meet the requirements of the addict population. While both brown and
white heroin are available, the overwhelming majority (98%) is brown.
Quantities and purity of heroin removals during calander year 1975
depicts Region 5 as a victim area rather than a source area. Quantities
have ranged from less than a 1/10 of a gram to 2 ounces with potencies
predominately in the 3-8% range. Removals during the month of
January 1976, however, showed a marked increase in potency with no
increase in quantities. Quantities of all removals were one ounce or
less. While there continued to be removals in the 3-8% purity range,
the potency of over half of the removals during January was in the 12-
27% range. These figures indicate that while Region 5's status as a
victim area has not changed, there is a substantial increase in
availability resulting in more potent heroin on the street. Abuse of
heroin in Region 5 generally follows the pattern of predominant use by
blacks in and around. the major metropolitan areas.
B. Cocaine
Cocaine is readily available throughout Region 5 in multi-kilo quantities
with potencies ranging up to 92% pure. Region 5's physical location in
relation to cocaine source countries in South America make it parti-
cularly desirable as a terminus for cocaine smuggling into the United
States. Thus, South Florida is the principal domestic source of cocaine
in the United States. Region 5's status as a source area for cocaine
does not eliminate it as a victim area. In fact, cocaine is widely abused
throughout the Region with little regard to socio-economic or ethnic
lines. The ages of abusers range from the pre-teens to the mid thirties.
3
C. Dangerous Drugs
Dangerous drugs are continuously increasing in availability. During
calendar year 1975, Region 5 removed in excess of 950,000 dosage
units of dangerous drugs. Additionally, during the month of January,
1976, in excess of 315,000 dosage units were removed. However, even
with the increasing availability, retail prices continue to be very high,
caused by a parallel increase in abuse and demand. The primary
dangerous drugs available are methaqualone, PCP, and amphetamines
D. Marihuana
As is true across the nation, marihuana is by far the most readily
available drug in Region 5. Region 5's physical location relative to the
marihuana source countries of Colombia, Jamaica, Honduras, and
Mexico, and our vulnerability to marine and airborne smuggling
incursions parallel our position in the cocaine traffic. Region 5 is one
of the most significant domestic source areas for marihuana in the
United States. This position in the flow of marihuana promotes
availability in multi-ton quantities and widespread abuse. Other forms
of cannabis are available in limited quantities.
4
III.
DRUG TRAFFICKING
In discussing Region 5 drug trafficking, both domestic and international, all
four catagories of drugs must be addressed. For the purpose of this briefing
domestic trafficking is defined as the movement of drugs from point-to-
point within the United States and international trafficking is defined as the
movement of drugs into the United States from a foreign country. Analysis
presented in this section of the briefing is based on substantive case data
and intelligence data extracted from the Miami Regional Intelligence Unit
files. Region 5 must be recognized as a MAJOR transshipment point for
cocaine and marihuana and a significant transshipment point for heroin.
A. International Heroin Trafficking
International heroin trafficking in Region 5, while not as prominent as
in some other areas, is significant. International heroin shipments have
been identified as originating from Southeast Asia, Europe, India,
Africa, South America, and Mexico. Heroin smuggled into Region 5 is
diverse as to origin and mode of transportation while being limited,
according to available intelligence, in numbers of occurrences. One of
our most significant recent heroin seizures, 23 pounds, occurred at
Miami in August/September, 1975. This heroin originated in Bangkok,
Thailand, and was intended for delivery to a Los Angeles group of
traffickers.
B. Domestic Heroin Trafficking
Both inbound and outbound domestic heroin trafficking has been
identified in Region 5.
Heroin flowing into Region 5 is primarily low grade "street level" heroin
appearing in quantities that suggest its intended recipients are street
level distributors. This heroin originates from domestic distribution
centers located in the northeast, the mid-west, west coast, and along
the southwest border. Identified distribution centers in the northeast
are New York City. and New Jersey, in the mid-west, Detroit and
Chicago, Los Angeles, and along the southwest border are Tucson,
Albuquerque, Brownsville, Corpus Christi, Dallas, El Paso, and Houston.
While there is a very small amount of white heroin entering Region 5
from the northeast distribution centers, the overwhelming majority of
our heroin is of the Mexican brown variety. The predominent mode of
transporting the drug is by couriers traveling as passengers on
commercial airlines and in private autos. In addition to these modes,
our intelligence files revealed a single mention of an air freight parcel
shipment from Detroit.
5
Intelligence shows a substantially smaller volume of heroin flowing out
of Region 5 which varies significantly from inbound heroin in purity,
quantities, and frequency of shipments. Region 5's outbound heroin is
predominently the result of transshipments of international heroin
terminating in Region 5. Destinations of the outbound heroin are
primarily in the northeast, midwest, and Los Angeles.
C. Cocaine Trafficking
Region 5 and particularly the State of Florida is by far the most promi-
nent center for both domestic and international cocaine trafficking in
the United States.
Cocaine trafficking in Region 5 almost exclusively takes the form of
transshipments of international cocaine terminating in the Region.
These transshipments are highlighted by high level and sometimes
violent negotiations involving sums of money in multi-hundred thousand
dollar quantities and multi-kilo quantities of high potency cocaine.
Cocaine from Region 5 is distributed throughout the United States and
Canada with the most frequent destination being the northeastern U.S. ,
in particular, New York City. Primary modes for movement of
cocaine out of Region 5 are commercial air passengers, private autos,
and the U.S. mail.
This Region's geographical proximity to cocaine source countries, its
extensive shoreline with numerous secluded bays and inlets, its remote
and unmanned airfields within range of light aircraft to cocaine source
countries, its high volume of international air passengers and cargo
arrivals and the high level of marine cargo traffic from South America
all combine to make Region 5 particularly suited as a terminus for
international cocaine trafficking. In fact, Region 5 has become the hub
of international cocaine trafficking with daily arrivals of multikilo
quantities of cocaine from South America.
The overwhelming majority of international cocaine entering Region 5
originates in Colombia, S. A. with significant quantities also originating
in other South and Central American Countries including Peru, Bolivia,
Argentina, Venezuela, Honduras, Panama, Ecuador, Guatemala, and
Brazil.
7
Methods of smuggling cocaine are limited only by the imagination of the
smuggler and the assets at his disposal. The most frequently employed
smuggling method is by couriers traveling on commercial airlines.
While the quantities smuggled by this method are significantly smaller
per incident than by other methods, its effectiveness is greatly
enhanced by the heavy volume of daily international passenger arrivals
(4,109 each day). Cocaine couriers have developed methods of secreting
their consignment that preclude detection by but only the most alert,
experienced and conscientious Customs inspectors. In addition to the
obvious method of concealment in accompanied and unaccompanied
baggage, some of the more interesting methods used by couriers
include: body and body cavity carry; concealed in talcum and baby
powder cans, tooth paste tubes, aerosol spray cans; liquefied and
impregnated in clothing and blankets, which are then either worn or
packed in baggage; hollowed soles of shoes, liquefied and secreted in
sealed wine and liquor bottles.
Other methods of smuggling while less frequent than couriers on
commercial air account for the majority of cocaine smuggled into this
Region. These methods include private aircraft, private vessels,
commercial vessels, and international mail. As an example, a total of
98 pounds of cocaine was seized from 3 different banana boats from
Colombia during the first week of August, 1975.
8
D. Dangerous Drugs
There is considerable clandestine lab activity in and around Atlanta
and reported clandestine lab activity in the rural areas in Florida.
One difficulty in gathering intelligence on dangerous drugs is the
sporadic movements of the lab operators and their ability to change
products seemingly overnight to keep up with the current drug of
choice. Additionally, thefts and pilferage at all levels of the
legitimate trade continue to provide dangerous drugs to the illicit
market. Dangerous drugs are reported to be transported intra and
inter-regionally, principally by truck drivers, commercial airline
passengers and private autos.
Internationally, the traffic in dangerous drugs comes into the
Region from Canada via commercial airline passengers and from
Mexico in trucks, private vehicles and commercial airliners. We
had one case of diversion of Roher quaaludes from the Dominican
Republic into Puerto Rico which resulted in our denial of an export
permit to Roher for the Dominican Republic.
9
E. Marihuana
As with cocaine, domestic trafficking of marihuana takes the form of
transshipment of multi-ton loads smuggled from Colombia, Jamaica,
Central America or Mexico terminating in the Region. The majority of
these shipments are broken into small parcels of 500 to 5,000 lbs and
shipped by leased campers, vans, or automobiles to areas along the
eastern seaboard and to Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Montana, Ohio,
Indiana. Region 5 must be recognized as a major transshipment point
for marihuana again because of its proximity to the source countries
and the apparent ease with which smugglers can evade maritime patrols
and pilot smugglers' radar evasion tactics of low altitude flying from
about sixty miles off the U.S. coast.
International marihuana enters Region 5 from Colombia, Jamaica, and
Mexico by the multi-ton loads in planes and boats. The airloads are
usually dropped at desolate landing strips throughout the Region, and
taken by leased camper, van, and vehicle to the buyer in other states.
Commercial cargo aircraft have smuggled ton and larger shipments of
marihuana into Miami. Heavy tonnage freighters from Colombia
hoovering just outside the 12 mile limit on the east coast and in the
Gulf are responsible for the majority of marihuana entering Region 5 at
this time. These freighters are off-loaded by smaller, faster vessels
which then penetrate our waters and shoreline with ease. In light of
current criticism of the marihuana laws and with a retail price of
$25.00 per ounce, it is not surprising to find respected members of the
business and professional communities involved in the financing and
distribution of this drug.
After a record removal of 63 tons by Customs/DEA in August 1975, RIU
Miami initiated a study to determine the effect of this removal
nationwide. The preliminary results of this study indicate no
appreciable effect on availability or price.
10
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 19, 1975
Jim:
Messrs. Dunham and Cavanaugh
have "signed off" on the attached.
They concur in the recommendations
set forth.
Dick
Dick Parsons
Creation -
D.C. Murri (scomp
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 17, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
JAMES M. CANNON
PAUL H. O'NEILL
FROM:
RICHARD D. PARSONS
EDWARD E. JOHNSON
SUBJECT:
Drug Abuse
This memorandum responds to your request for our joint review
of, and recommendations with respect to, the problems and
issues raised in Bob DuPont's memo of March 10th (copy attached
at Tab A).
COMMENT
The Federal drug program is likely to cause political problems
and embarrassment for the Administration in the near future.
All indications point to a resurging heroin problem in spite of
the high priority effort and the massive funding increases by the
Federal Government during the past six years.
Complicating the picture is the fact that the Special Action Office
for Drug Abuse Prevention (SAODAP), which was created in 1971
to coordinate all Federal drug abuse prevention, treatment and
educational programs, will terminate on June 30, 1975. The
Administration's failure thus far to indicate a coordination
mechanism to replace SAODAP after its termination has caused
the Congress and the press to question its (the Administration's)
commitment to drug abuse prevention.
In order to blunt mounting criticism of the Federal drug abuse
prevention effort and to revitalize those efforts, a strong signal
of continuing White House interest is required soon. However,
this signal should not be simply a blanket endorsement of existing
programs.
RECEIVED
JUL 29 1976
GERALD R. LIGRARY FORD
CENTRAL FILES
-2-
The worsening drug abuse problem suggests that we may not
have "turned the corner" as was previously indicated by
President Nixon. A fresh look should be taken at Federal drug
policies and programs in terms of both cost and social effective-
ness.
A priority review of the entire drug abuse program by the
Domestic Council would be a good way to:
-- demonstrate high level interest and support;
--
respond to legitimate Congressional concerns;
-- assure the perpetuation and creation of appropriate
and effective drug abuse prevention policies and
strategies;
-- provide answers regarding the appropriate level and
structure of Executive Office drug management; and
-- revitalize the drug program generally.
RECOMMENDATION
We recommend, therefore, that the Domestic Council be directed
by the President to undertake a thorough review of the overall
Federal effort in the prevention and treatment of drug abuse.
To assist the Council in this regard, we further recommend the
creation of a Drug Review Task Force, chaired by the Executive
Director of the Domestic Council and consisting of high-level
representatives of the interested Federal departments and
agencies. OMB would provide working level coordination and
staff support, with specific individuals designated from the
various departments and agencies participating as working team
members. The Task Force would also be authorized to retain
or consult with knowledgeable persons from outside of govern-
ment as appropriate.
-3-
Short term objectives would include providing recommendations
for the appropriate means of continuing Executive Office coordina-
tion after June. Concurrent, but longer range, objectives would
be to develop:
1. A credible analysis of the current levels of drug
abuse problems in the United States.
2. A review of the appropriateness of existing drug
policies.
3. A thorough review of existing government drug
programs, organizations and advisory mechanisms.
4. An analysis of the cost and social effectiveness in
balancing drug programs and priorities.
The conclusions and recommendations of the Task Force would
be presented to the Vice President and, by him, to the President.
(A draft Drug Review Task Force Study Plan is attached at Tab B.)
Approval of this high priority review can form the basis of a
positive and confident statement by Bob DuPont before the Hathaway
Subcommittee on the 24th.
DECISION
Approve. (Prepare memo from Vice President to the
President asking approval to begin review)
Disapprove.
Discuss.
Attachments
ALA
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
SPECIAL ACTION OFFICE FOR DRUG ABUSE PREVENTION
WASHINGTON, DC 20506
March 10, 1975
MEMORANDUM TO: JAMES M. CANNON
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, DOMESTIC COUNCIL
PAUL H. O'NEILL
DEPUTY DIRECTOR, OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET
FROM:
ROBERT L. DIRECTOR
SUBJECT:
OPTIONS FOR FUTURE COORDINATION OF FEDERAL DRUG ABUSE
PREVENTION
Purpose
To present options designed to assure continued coordination of Federal
drug abuse prevention.
Assumption
The Special Action Office will terminate on June 30, 1975.
Discussion
After termination of the Special Action Office, the need for continuing
coordination of Federal drug abuse prevention activities will remain.
The attached options paper presents, in draft, a summary of the current
national drug abuse situation, and the viable approaches to assure the
Federal coordination required to respond to conditions. In essence,
this paper recommends that:
The Director, National Institute on Drug Abuse, act as
Special Assistant to the President on drug abuse matters.
Legislation be developed to establish the National
Institute on Drug Abuse as the lead agency for Federal
drug abuse prevention activities.
A Cabinet Committee for Drug Abuse be established, with
the Director, National Institute on Drug Abuse, as the
Executive Director.
GERAL FORD
- 2 -
I will circulate a refined version of this paper to the Strategy Council
on Wednesday, March 12, and seek its approval of a course of action on
Friday, March 14, when it convenes to approve the final version of the
1975 Federal Strategy for Drug Abuse and Drug Trafficking Prevention.
The conclusions of the Strategy Council regarding continued coordination
will be incorporated into my testimony on March 24 and 25 before
Senator William D. Hathaway's Subcommittee on Alcoholism and Narcotics,
of the Senate Committee on Labor and Public Welfare.
I will appreciate your comments on the attached options paper.
Attachment
FORD & LIBRARY 038470
OPTIONS
FOR
FUTURE COORDINATION OF FEDERAL DRUG
DRAFT
Background
The Special Action Office for Drug Abuse Prevention is legislatively
scheduled for termination on June 30, 1975. Current activities with
the Office will accomplish the administrative and short-term management
actions required to effect the termination on schedule.
However, there is an urgent need to examine broad options at the
Federal level to assure continued coordination of drug abuse prevention
and enforcement activities after termination of the Special Action
Office. Increasingly accurate indicators of trends in drug abuse show
that the nation may now be experiencing a new escalation of heroin use
in the United States. Factors in both the heroin supply and treatment
areas indicate adverse trends which require coordinated and centralized
response.
On the supply side, for example, sources of heroin are increasing;
Mexican heroin availability has spread at an alarming rate through
the U.S. during the past 18 months, and Southeast Asian and Turkish
heroin distribution is increasing on both coasts. Another indication
of increased supply is the reduction in price and the increase in purity
on the East Coast.
In the area of treatment, all national indicators show an upward trend
for the first time in several years. National data on property crime,
overdose deaths, Iospital drug emergencies, and serum hepatitis rates
uniformly point tc an emerging heroin problem in all areas of the country;
this phenomenon is occurring in small to medium sized cities, as well
as larger metropolitan areas. Demand for Federal treatment continues
to rise, and the treatment systems at both Federal and State and local
levels are operating at nearly 100 percent capacity. More than 3,000
people per month now enter the Federal system, and waiting lists for
treatment have appeared in more than 30 States.
A number of viable options have been examined for coordinating a
continued Federal response to the re-emerging heroin problem. Each
has certain advantages and disadvantages in terms of ease of
implementation and efficacy in responding to future conditions. All
have at least limited potential to coordinate the activities of the
Federal agencies with important drug abuse prevention and treatment
functions, including HEW, VA, DoD, BoP, LEAA (Criminal Justice), and
Department of State. Also, most of the options have the inherent
disadvantages of relying on an interagency committee approach to
determine overall priorities and directions, and to allocate agency
assets.
The following paragraphs summarize options which provide Federal
authority to direct action, flexibility to respond, and management
capability to coordinate program action.
CERTIFY rong
Summary of Options
Option #1: Director, National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
acts as Special Assistant to the President on drug abuse matters
a. Summary Description: Director, NIDA, with concurrence of
Secretary, DHEW, serves as advisor to President through White
House or Domestic Council staff.
b. Advantages
Administratively executed
Links lead Federal drug abuse agency to White House staff and
the Domestic Council
Strengthens stature of NIDA Director in coordination with
other agencies
Appropriation not required
C. Disadvantages
By-passes DHEW organization
Special Assistant title does not fully offset NIDA organizational
position in coordinating with other agencies
Fails to effectively coordinate between Federal drug supply
(enforcement) and demand (prevention and treatment) matters
Option #2: Develop legislation to establish the National Institute
on Drug Abuse as the lead agency for Federal drug abuse prevention
activities
a. Summary Description: Legislation extends NIDA lead agency role
from DHEW to Federal-wide.
R.FORD JERARY
b. Advantages
Confirms Federal technical program leadership role of NIDA
Provides permanent lead agency for long-term heroin problem
No additional appropriation required
C.
Disadvantages
Horizontal encroachment upon other agencies in interagency
coordination
Imbalance in DHEW organization - greater organizational status
for NIDA than NIAAA, NIMH, or ADAMHA
Usurps traditional health-related authority of Secretary,
DHEW, by establishing a primary responsibility in subordinate
officer
Legislation required
Option #3: Vest policy and coordination role in OMB
a.
Summary Description: Legislatively vest OMB with special Federal
drug program coordination and policy-making authority.
b. Advantages
Strengthens OMB budget policy role through addition of program
policy-making authority
Permits coordinating both Federal drug demand and supply matters
No additional appropriation required
C.
Disadvantages
Policy and program authority contrary to traditional OMB
budget function
Contrary to traditional lead responsibility of DHEW in health matters
Sets precedent for other special emphasis program and policy
roles in OMB
Legislation required
Option #4: Special Cabinet Committee on Drug Abuse
a. Summary Description: Establish special Cabinet Committee for
Federal Drug Abuse Prevention program and policy coordination,
with NIDA Director serving as Executive Director.
b. Advantages
Program autonomy retained by departments and agencies
Policy and information exchange forum
Can span both Federal drug demand and supply matters
Administratively established
Appropriation not required
C.
Disadvantages
Advisory, without specific decisional or broad coordination
authority
Part-time approach in intermittent committee meetings
Decentralized review of policy, program, and technical issues
Option #5: Establish special Domestic Council staff
a. Summary Description: Establish full-time committee staff to
advise Council on recommended policy and monitor major Federal
drug program management.
b. Advantages
Administratively established or dissolved
Augments Domestic Council capability in complex hercin problem
Spans both Federal drug supply and demand matters
Minimum cost; high level
White House status provides access to department and agency
decision-makers
C. Disadvantages
Parent decision-making Domestic Council convenes intermittently
Expands White House staff size
Staff size limitations in face of complex and often technical
issues
Option #6: Office of Vice President
a. Summary Description: Establish special staff to monitor Federal
drug matters for Vice President in keeping with expanded role
of the Office of Vice President in domestic issues.
b. Advantages
Administratively established
Coincides with Vice President's role as Domestic Council
Vice Chairman
Minimum cost; high level
White House level status provides access to department and
agency decision-makers
Can span both Federal drug supply and demand matters
C. Disadvantages
Undefined decisional authority regarding Federal coordination
and policy-making
Staff expansion
Operations require coordination with intermittent Domestic
Council meetings
FORD & LIBRARY GERALD
Conclusions
The apparent resurgence of a severe national heroin problem in the
United States, coupled with the scheduled termination of the Special
Action Office, warrants immediate action for establishing a method
to continue coordination of Federal policy-making and program activity
in drug abuse prevention. Rising social costs of drug abuse reinforce
the requirement to continue a visible commitment in the Administration
to combatting heroin addiction and drug abuse in this country. The
response should continue to balance the allocation of resources in
the law enforcement, prevention, and treatment services areas.
An incremental approach to continued coordination of the Federal drug
abuse prevention activities provides the best available solution to
the termination of the Special Action Office for Drug Abuse Prevention.
The three increments would: integrate the technical expertise of the
National Institute on Drug Abuse through the Director; establish the
National Institute on Drug Abuse as the lead agency for Federal drug
abuse prevention activities; and create a special Cabinet Committee
on Drug Abuse to integrate activities of HEW, VA, DoD, BoP, LEAA,
and Department of State.
Recommendations
That Options #1, #2, and #4 be approved, to:
Appoint the Director, National Institute on Drug Abuse as
Special Assistant to the President on Drug Abuse Matters.
Develop legislation to establish the National Institute on
Drug Abuse as the lead agency for Federal drug abuse prevention.
GERALD
Establish a Cabinet Committee on Drug Abuse Prevention to
integrate the activities of HEW, VA, DoD, BoP, LEAA and
Department of State.
DRUG REVIEW TASK FORCE
STUDY PLAN
STUDY OBJECTIVES
To undertake a comprehensive review and assessment of:
1.
The effectiveness of the current Federal drug abuse
prevention strategy, which is based on simultaneous
action to reduce both supply and demand of illicit
drugs through tough law enforcement, here and abroad,
and through treatment and rehabilitation of drug abusers.
2.
The impact of increased Federal funding on the national
drug problem and the appropriateness of current funding
priorities, particularly with respect to supply reduction/
demand reduction and domestic/international programs
and activities.
3. The effectiveness of existing organizational structures,
including SAODAP, the Drug Enforcement Administration,
Customs, the National Institute of Drug Abuse, the
Cabinet Committee on International Narcotics Control
and the Domestic Council Committee on Drug Abuse.
4.
The appropriateness and structure of an Executive
Office drug coordination/management mechanism.
5. Such other Federal drug policies or programs as may
require review.
TIMING
The study would begin immediately, and would initially focus on
developing recommendations for providing post-SAODAP coordina-
tion of treatment activities- a focus forced by the scheduled June
-2-
expiration and related Congressional interest. At the same time,
work would proceed on the broader issues identified above. Most
recommendations should be ready for presentation by the Task
Force to the Vice Chairman by mid-summer. Frequent progress
reports will be delivered by the staff to the Task Force.
STUDY DIRECTION
The study would be under the direction of the Domestic Council
with a Task Force of Assistant Secretary level officials from the
responsible agencies (basically to provide access and support).
TASK FORCE MEMBERSHIP
Chairman
James M. Cannon
Executive Secretary
Richard D. Parsons
Members (names later)
Department of State
Department of the Treasury
Department of Defense
Department of Justice
Health, Education & Welfare
Veterans Administration
Central Intelligence Agency
Special Action Office for Drug
Abuse Prevention
- -3-
Ex-Officio Members
Harold Horan -- NSC
Edward E. Johnson -- OMB
(Working Group Leader)
The Task Force would be authorized to retain or consult with
knowledgeable outsiders to ensure that a broad range of viewpoints
is considered.
A working group, led by Ed Johnson of OMB, would provide
necessary staff work and report through the Executive Secretary.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
DOMESTIC COUNCIL CLEARANCE SHEET
DATE: March 18, 1975
JMC action required by: 3/20
TO:
JIM CANNON
VIA:
DICK DUNHAM
JIM WARRENMENDRIKS CAVANAUG
FROM:
SUBJECT:
DRUG ABUSE
COMMENTS:
It appears that the attached from Dick Parsons concerning drug abuse
was not routed through you. I assume the proposal has been discussed
but thought it best to return for your sign off.
Attachments
Dich note Changes
March 11, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
DICK PARSONS
FROM:
JIM CANNON
SUBJECT:
SAODAP
In the attached draft memorandum, Robert Dupont provides options
for the future of Federal drug abuse prevention activities. As he
states in the last paragraph, the final conclusions from this paper
will be incorporated into his Hill testimony scheduled for March 24
and 25.
Would you please review this paper and in coordination with OMB
develop our response to Dupont. If a Presidential decision paper
is necessary, we should have that completed by March 19th.
Thank you.
Attachment
See attached reply.
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
March 17, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR:
JAMES CANNON
FROM:
DICK PARSONS Dick
SUBJECT:
Drug Abuse - Background
The purpose of this memorandum is to briefly review for you the
background of Federal drug abuse prevention activities, so that you
may review the attached material (i.e., the joint Domestic Council -
OMB response to Bob DuPont's memo of March 10th concerning the
options for future coordination of Federal drug abuse prevention
programs) in historical and functional perspective. Since you
requested that my response to DuPont's memo be coordinated with
OMB, I thought it best to give you this background by separate cover
memo.
Attached to this memo is a memo from Ken Cole to Don Rumsfeld
which fairly accurately summarizes the developments leading up
to DuPont's memo of March 10th. In my view, however, Cole's
statement of the options is not complete and his ultimate recommenda-
tion fails to adequately deal with the situation we are currently facing.
My reasons are as follows:
1.
At the time Cole wrote his memo there was little Congressional
or media focus on the fact that, despite the massive Federal
effort of the last six years, the drug problem is getting worse.
This new focus can be seen in the fact that
--
The Senate Subcommittee on Alcoholism and Narcotics
has scheduled hearings on possible extension of the
SAODAP authorizing legislation;
The Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations
has scheduled hearings on the overall effectiveness of
the Drug Enforcement Administration;
2.
-
NBC News recently did an eight-minute piece on the
growing heroin problem involving the so-called
"Mexican connection"; and
-
Commentary will shortly publish an article by James Q.
Wilson, entitled "Heroin", which indicates that we have
not "turned the corner" on the heroin problem.
2.
There has been little, if any, review of the effectiveness of
existing Federal drug abuse prevention programs, strategies
or policies. Despite a tenfold increase in Federal funding
since 1968, the problem has not gone away; indeed, it has
gotten worse. Perhaps it's time to review our approach to
see if we are doing something wrong or could be doing some-
thing better.
3. The Domestic Council Committee on Drug Abuse is a farce.
It has met only once (the organizational meeting) and has never
functioned as a Committee. Nor is there a Working Group of
the Committee. Therefore, reliance on the Committee to
articulate and coordinate domestic drug abuse initiatives
would clearly signal a lessening of Administration commit-
ment to the overall prevention effort, with potentially
disastrous results both politically and programmatically.
Attachment
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
January 7, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR DON RUMSFELD
FROM:
Ken Cole
SUBJECT: White House Organization and Drug Abuse
BACKGROUND
In the heyday of the drug epidemic, there was extensive Presidential
and staff attention devoted to the issue of drug abuse. This reached
its zenith during 1972 when the White House had:
-- The Special Action Office for Drug Abuse Prevention (SAODAP),
headed by Dr. Jerome Jaffe, Special Assistant to the President,
which was to coordinate all Federal drug abuse prevention,
treatment, and educational programs from the White House.
- - The Office of Drug Abuse Law Enforcement, headed by
Myles Ambrose, Special Assistant to the President, which
was a temporary, high-intensity effort utilizing young
attorneys to prosecute heroin pushers at the street level.
-- A Cabinet Committee on International Narcotic Control,
whose Executive Director was Bud Krogh of the Domestic
Council staff, with three additional staff members working
respectively on the areas of law enforcement, treatment,
and international initiatives.
With the initial success of Government efforts in this area, more
traditional (and less political) organizational concepts have been
adopted:
-- A National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) was created in
HEW in anticipation of the statutory end of SAODAP this
June 30, 1975. Dr. Robert DuPont is head of both SAODAP
and NIDA.
-2-
ODALE was merged by Reorganization Plan with Justice
and Treasury drug enforcement agents to create a new Drug
Enforcement Administration (DEA) in Justice, with the
Attorney General given overall responsibility for drug
enforcement.
The Executive Directorship of CCINC was moved to the State
Department to a Senior Adviser to the Secretary for Narcotics
Affairs.
An Office of Drug Management was established in OMB to
coordinate and aid overall Government programs in this area.
A Domestic Council Committee on Drug Abuse, co-chaired
by the Attorney General and the Secretary of HEW was
established to coordinate interdepartmental efforts.
The attached package argues for the extension of SAODAP, now down to
20 staff members in the NEOB. It represents the anguished cry of
Dr. Robert DuPont who fears the final end of SAODAP will banish drug
treatment and prevention initiatives to the wasteland of HEW at precisely
the time drug abuse is rebounding as a nationwide problem.
Dr. DuPont presents four options, whose common thread is that
someone "at the White House" must be publicly in charge of drug abuse
or dire political and practical consequences will follow. Dr. DuPont
recommends creation of a new 4-year statutory Office of Drug Policy
in the Executive Office of the President.
OMB correctly points out that all the major substantive policy decisions
concerning drug abuse treatment have already been made, and recom-
mends against continuation or creation of any separate agency in the
Executive Office. OMB does, however, recognize the possible need
to continue visible White House leadership in this area.
A Special Assistant role has usually been the answer for this type of
problem, but naming DuPont would only aggravate the situation by
singling out one particular area of drug abuse (in DuPont's case, treat-
ment) for emphasis. Morcover, both OMB and the Domestic Council
staff have specialists on drug abuse already doing the non-public policy
and management staff work. The need really is for an occasional visible
spokesman at the White House to speak to the worsening drug situation.
-3-
Yet a candid political analysis would suggest that having President
Ford do a significant number of drug abuse statements and initiatives
would be too reminiscent of the previous Administration. One promising
solution would be to ask VP Rockefeller to chair the existing Domestic
Council Committee on Drug Abuse. As a former Governor of the State
worst ravaged by heroin, he has both familiarity and experience with
the problem. Most advantageous of all, policies or initiatives advocated
by Rockefeller could not be attacked as "blindly following the Nixon
hard line on drugs. "
OPTIONS
1. Ask VP Rockefeller to chair the Domestic Council Committee
on Drug Abuse, and forego the establishment or continuation
of any other office within the Executive Office.
2. Rely upon the existing Domestic Council Committee, with
the new Attorney General and Secretary of HEW as CO-
chairmen to articulate and coordinate domestic drug abuse
initiatives.
3. Appoint a Special Assistant for Drug Abuse who would provide
more White House visibility and leadership on this issue.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Cole - "I urge Option 2, which puts the Cabinet out front on a
substantive issue where it belongs. Although I think the Vice
President could be very helpful in this area, he should have the
flexibility to move in and out of issues as Vice Chairman of
the entire Domestic Council and not be tied down, unless he so
choses, by the responsibilities of a particular chairmanship."
O'Neill - Option 2.
DECISION
Option 1
Option 2
Option 3
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 24, 1975
ADMINISTRATIVELY CONFIDENTIAL
MEMORANDUM FOR:
FROM:
JERRY JIM CANNON H. mg JONES
SUBJECT:
Domestic Council Study of
Federal Drug Abuse Program
Your memorandum to the President of April 21 on the above subject
has been reviewed and your recommendation -- that the Domestic
Council undertake a study of the overall Federal effort in the
prevention and treatment of drug abuse -- was approved.
Please follow-up with the appropriate action.
Thank you.
cc: Don Rumsfeld
RECEIVED
1976
omar
surlesm
THE WHITE HOUSE
ACTION
WASHINGTON
April 21, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
SUBJECT:
Domestic Council Jun Study of
JIM CANNON
Federal Drug Abuse Program
I recommend that the Domestic Council undertake a study of the overall
Federal effort in the prevention and treatment of drug abuse.
REASONS FOR STUDY
The Federal drug program is likely to cause political problems and
embarrassment for the Administration in the near future. All indications
point to a resurging heroin problem in spite of the high priority effort and
massive funding increases by the Federal government during the past six
years.
Complicating the picture is the fact that the Special Action Office for Drug
Abuse Prevention (SAODAP) in the Executive Office of the President will
terminate on June 30, 1975. Thus far, no coordination mechanism to
replace SAODAP has been proposed, and Congress and the press are
questioning the Administration's commitment to fighting the mounting
drug problem.
In order to blunt mounting criticism of the Federal drug abuse prevention
effort and to revitalize that effort, a strong signal of continuing White House
interest is required soon. Moreover, a fresh look should be taken at
Federal drug policies and programs to determine their cost and social
effectiveness.
A priority review of the entire drug abuse program by the Domestic
Council would be a good way to demonstrate high level interest and
support; respond to legitimate Congressional and public concern; and
assure the perpetuation and creation of appropriate and effective drug
abuse prevention policies and strategies. It could also be an important
component of a comprehensive program to combat crime.
EAAD FORD
STUDY OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the study would be to undertake a
comprehensive review and assessment of the effectiveness
of the current Federal drug abuse prevention strategy;
the impact of increased Federal funding on the national
drug problem and the appropriatedness of current funding
priorities; the effectiveness of existing organizational
structures, including SAODAP, the Drug Enforcement
Administration, the National Institute for Drug Abuse
and the Cabinet Committee on International Narcotics
Control; and the continuing need for, and structure of,
an Executive Office drug management/coordination mechanism.
ORGANIZATION
The review would be conducted through a Drug Review
Task Force, chaired by the Executive Director of the
Domestic Council, and consisting of high level represent-
atives of the following Departments and Agencies:
Treasury
Veterans Administration
State
OMB
Defense
SAODAP
HEW
CIA
Justice
The Task Force would also be authorized to consult with
knowledgeable persons from outside of government, as
appropriate.
TIMETABLE
The study would begin immediately and would initially
focus on developing recommendations for providing post-
SAODAP coordination of treatment activities -- a focus
forced by the scheduled expiration of SAODAP and related
Congressional interest. This phase should be completed
within six weeks. At the same time, work would proceed
on the broader issues identified above. This should be
completed by September 1, 1975.
POSITION OF OTHERS
This idea has been discussed with Dr. Robert DuPont,
Ambassador Sheldon Vance and John Bartels and they agree
as to the need for this priority review.
The Vice President, Phil Buchen, OMB (Paul )'Neill) and
NSC (Hal Horan) concur in this recommendation.
PRESIDENTIAL DECISION
Agree
Disagree
THE SECRETARY OF HEALTH, EDUCATION. AND WELFARE
INPARTMENT
WASHINGTON. D. C.20201
184/17
TROPP
MAY 2 1975
The Honorable John T. Dunlop
Secretary of Labor
Washington, D. C. 20210
Dear Mr. Secretary:
As you doubtless are aware, this Department and yours spend several
billion dollars every year on people caught up in the criminal justice
system, particularly perpetrators of violent crime and drug abusers.
Much of that expenditure represents discretionary monies which the
Secretary of this Department and of the Department of Labor can re-
direct and constrain as they perceive the necessity. We have, in
effect, at least as much leverage over the criminal justice system as
does the Department of Justice.
In his speech last Friday night at the Yale Law School Convocation, the
President articulated a concern, which he has been increasingly dis-
cussing with his staff over the last several months, about what the
White House can do to reduce violent crime. I am told he has spent
a great deal of time reading and thinking about the problems of crime
and of drug abuse, and has spoken with visitors from universities
about them. Now, he has directed his staff to generate new ideas and
new options for him in order that he can reexamine completely what the
Federal Government is doing about these problems.
Since the criminal justice efforts of our three Departments are inevitably
dependent upon each other, I propose that you, I and the Attorney General
sit down as soon after my return on May 12 as possible to discuss what
the resources at our Departments' command can, cooperatively deployed,
do about the problems of violent crime and drug abuse.
Such a meeting might, perhaps, be the precursor to a revival in May
of the Cabinet Committees on Crime and on Drug Abuse, which have been
effectively defunct for the last two years.
My staff in the Office of the Secretary has already, since the summer
of 1974, been engaged in an analytic effort to learn how we can make
more productive our investment in the criminal justice system and in
042918
Page 2 -- The Honorable John T. Dunlop
crime prevention. In the course of that analysis, we have established
ongoing contact with staff of your Office and of the Office of the
Attorney General, and we have shared information with those staffs.
Given that background, perhaps a useful immediate first step would be
for you to designate a member of your staff to meet with mine and that
of the Attorney General's in order to draw up a detailed agenda of
questions for our discussion, and to explore the possibility of a joint
analytic agenda to be pursued by our three immediate offices in response
to the President's concerns.
With best wishes,
Sincerely,
/s/Cap
Secretary
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
WASHINGTON
Honorable Caspar W. Weinberger
Secretary of Health, Education,
and Welfare
Washington, D.C. 20201
Dear Mr. Secretary:
I would be pleased, as suggested in your letter of
May 2, 1975, to continue the cooperative inter-
departmental approach to solving offender problems.
In preparation for the meeting you propose with the
Attorney General, I have asked John Cheston, who has
directed much of the policy work in this area, and
Pierce Quinlan, who has charge of the relevant manpower
operations, to jointly represent me in this matter.
They will be pleased to meet with staff designated by
you and the Attorney General to frame an agenda of
questions for our discussion and to explore the possi-
bility of a joint analytic agenda.
Mr. Cheston and Mr. Quinlan will be expecting a call
from the staff person you have selected for this
assignment. Mr. Cheston's phone number is 523-6054,
and Mr. Quinlan's number is 376-6254.
Sincerely,
7505280106
Secretary of Labor
rour
of
THE SECRETARY OF HEALTH, EDUCATION, AND WELFARE
WASHINGTON, D. C.20201
STATE
JUN 6 1975
Honorable John T. Dunlop
Secretary of Labor
Washington, D.C. 20210
Dear Mr. Secretary:
Thank you for your letter of May 27, responding to mine of
May 2, on what our Departments can do together with the Depart-
ment of Justice to maximize the return from the resources which
we invest in the control of violent crime and drug abuse.
Per your suggestion, I have designated Richard Tropp (245-1800)
of my staff to call John Cheston and Pierce Quinlan. They will
meet with a member of the Attorney General's Office in order
to frame an agenda of questions for our discussion.
Sincerely,
/s/Cap
Secretary
FORD
LIBRARY & 072839
Some items in this folder were not digitized because it contains copyrighted
materials. Please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library for access to
these materials.
10
Antidrug Agency Boss
Faces Ford Panel Quiz
By FRANK VAN RIPER
Washington, May 7 (News Bureau) - White House
sources said today that John R: Bartels, embattled chief
of the Drug Enforcement Administration, will be called
as a witness before a special presidential task force that
DAILY NEWS, THURSDAY, MAY 8, 1975
was set up last week to investigate charges of bungling
and corruption within the nation's antidrug effort.
Besided summoning Bartels -
who already has been interview-
Nixon in 1973 to coordinate all
ed behind closed dorrs by a
drug enforcement.
The group - which will prob-
separate Justice Department
ably have less than a dozen
probe of the drug administra-
members will be run by Ford's
tion, the White House group ex-
Domestic Council
pects to hear from Sheldon B.
The panel probably will begin
Vance, Secretary of State Kiss-
its work early next month,
inger's coordinator for interna-
roughly the same time the sub-
tional narcotics matters. Vance
committee will begin at least
is expected to criticize the
two weeks of public hearings.
agency on several fronts, sources
As Senators See It
said, and to charge it with
According to congressional
aggravating relations between
and other sources. the Senate
the United States and Latin
group, headed by Sen. Henry M.
American countries that have
Jackson (D-Wash.), has evidence
become major suppliers of co-
indicating that the federal anti-
caine.
drug effort has been hurt as
It was also learned that a
much by bureacratic aquabbles
third investigation of the admin-
as by corruption. The sources
would not disclose the precise
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
May 20, 1975
FYI
MEMORANDUM TO:
DICK PARSONS
FROM:
DICK DUNHAM Dich
SUBJECT:
Domestic Council Meeting --
Review Group Study on Drug Abuse
The President has scheduled a Domestic Council meeting
on Friday at 2 p.m.
One of the items on the agenda will likely be the
announcement by him or the Vice President of the review
groups that have already been established and approved
by the President.
I would appreciate it if you would prepare a one-page
memorandum for either the President's or the Vice President's
use which includes at least the following items:
1)
The announcement of the members of the
review group.
2)
A paragraph on the basic mission and objectives
of the review group.
3)
The timing for completion of the various
steps in the tasks.
I would appreciate it if I could have this by the close
of business Wednesday.
CC:
Jim Cannon
REFORD i LIBRARY GERALD
322 FM SO EN 1 OD
RECEIVED
JUL 29 1976
CENTRAL FILES
THE Drug
WHITE HOUSE abuse
WASHINGTON
FYI
June 24, 1975
12:00 noon
JMC:
The meeting with the Senators
this afternoon at 2:30 p.m.
has been CANCELLED. Sen. Percy
was called out of the city.
Parsons will try to reschedule
tomorrow afternoon.
good
p.
June 23, 1975
6:04 p.m.
JMC:
Dick Parsons suggested that you should meet with
Senators Javits, Percy & Ribicoff tomorrow on the Special
Action Office on Drug Abuse. Parsons suggests 2:30 p.m. and
says it will not take longer than 1 hour.
Your calendar is free at that time if you want to do this.
I will meet with the
Senators at 2:30 p.m.
Can't do it tomorrow
Other
p.
FORD i 939870 LIBRARY
RECEIVED
JUL 29 1976
CENTRAL FILES
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
June 24, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR: Jim Cannon
Paul O'Neill
FROM:
Dick Parsons
Ed Johnson
SUBJECT:
Extension of the Special Action
Office for Drug Abuse Prevention
This memorandum provides background material for your meeting
with Senators Javits, Percy and Ribicoff today.
BACKGROUND
The Special Action Office for Drug Abuse Prevention (SAODAP) was
established by Executive Order in June 1971. Subsequently, in
March 1972, Congress passed legislation establishing SAODAP as
a temporary White House office to oversee the development of a
comprehensive drug abuse treatment and prevention program to
balance the existing drug law enforcement programs.
At its peak in early 1973, SAODAP had over 180 employees and was
actively involved in a wide range of prevention, treatment, rehabili-
tation and research activities. Since then, functions -- and some
people -- have gradually been shifted to a permanent successor
organization, the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA), in the
Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. To facilitate the
transfer, Bob DuPont, Director of SAODAP, was also named Director
of NIDA in September 1973. The transfer of most program activity
was completed in late 1974, and SAODAP's staff is now down to 10.
SAODAP ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Since creation of SAODAP, major progress has been made in developing
a viable Federal treatment program for drug abusers.
- Federal treatment capacity has grown from 16,000 to
128,000.
- Numerous pilot projects to reach out to previously
untreated drug abusers have been developed.
- Progress has been made in reducing the stigma attached
to former drug abusers.
2
- Communication and coordination between the
criminal justice system and the health care
delivery system have improved.
- Other Federal agencies -- Defense, Veterans and
Prisons (Justice) -- have developed treatment
programs for their specialized clientele.
- A successor organization -- NIDA -- has been
created.
SAODAP certainly is not solely responsible for these accomplish-
ments; other organizations, including our own, played a major
role. Nonetheless, SAODAP's contributions were real and
significant. Perhaps above all else, SAODAP set a tone of
urgency and priority which was needed.
ARGUMENT AGAINST EXTENSION
The conditions which originally required a special office --
essentially, the need to rapidly develop a treatment response --
no longer exist, and SADOP should be allowed to expire on June 30.
Any last-minute extension would merely prolong the period during
which NIDA has only partial authority, and would run counter to
the President's expressed desire to strengthen Cabinet manage-
ment. There is no need for every special interest to have its
own White House representative. Finally, since most of SAODAP's
staff (and all the good staff) has already left or made arrange-
ments for other jobs, it is unlikely that an office extended for
a short time could be much more than an empty shell.
ARGUMENT FOR EXTENSION
While expiration on June 30 makes substantive sense, its supporters
on the Hill are extremely skeptical of NIDA's ability to effectively
replace SAODAP. They genuinely believe that a decline in attention,
and budget, devoted to drug abuse treatment will inevitably follow
SAODAP's demise. Moreover, they view the Executive Director of
SAODAP as an "accessible" Administration spokesman on drug abuse
treatment. Finally, with the drug problem getting worse, it is
"politically" unwise to let SAODAP expire.
The attached talking points should be useful in your meeting.
OFFICE OF DRUG ABUSE PREVENTION POLICY
CANNON-O'NEILL TALKING POINTS
1.
We oppose extending SAODAP in name or in kind:
The conditions which originally required a special
office on drug abuse treatment (e.g., the need to
rapidly develop treatment response) no longer exist.
The balance between supply and demand has been
achieved.
The President has stated his intention to decentralize
Executive management; continuation of special drug
abuse office in White House counter to moving res-
ponsibility to the Departments.
SAODAP has had little success in coordinating other
agency programs which could not have been handled
from NIDA; on major disputes, SAODAP has required
Domestic Council and OMB intervention, which is
also available to NIDA.
The extension of SAODAP (or a similar type office)
does not meet the broader need to provide coordination
of all aspects of the Federal drug program -- treat-
ment and rehabilitation, law enforcement and inter-
national control.
2.
However, we want to emphasize that this orderly transition
does not signal a diminution of White House interest in
drug treatment.
3.
Because of his concern about the drug problem, the President
has directed the Domestic Council to undertake a thorough
review of the entire drug program.
4.
One of the major tasks of the Special Review will be to
recommend a mechanism or organization to provide coordination
of the three major areas of the drug program -- treatment,
law enforcement and international control.
5.
We want to work closely with you during this review period
to develop a permanent coordinative mechanism.
ALTERNATIVE (COUNTER PROPOSAL)
Pending the report and recommendations of the Drug Review
Task Force, we could:
1.
By Executive Order, designate NIDA as the
lead agency to coordinate all Executive
Branch drug abuse treatment activities.
2.
Designate the Director of NIDA as Special
Assistant to the President on Drug Abuse
Prevention.
DRUG ENFORCEMENT Lul ADMINISTRATION & - POF
mury MIAMI REGIONAL w OFFICE (wu, HJ002
AN ANALYSIS OF COCAINE was improveD
SMUGGLING IN my REGION 5 I $25.0
July 1, 1973 - June 30, 1975
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BERALD R.FORD LIBRARY
Intelligence Analyst
Regional Intelligence Unit tin
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report represents a profile of cocaine smuggling in Region
5 during the period July 1, 1973 through June 30, 1975. One hundred-
ninety or 98.45% of all Customs Referral case files initiated during
the time frame of this study were reviewed. A list of the Customs
Referral case files and related General Files that were reviewed is
attached.
This report covers the following subject areas:
Avenues of Smuggling and the Methods Employed
1. Commercial Airline Passenger and Employee
2. Private Aircraft
3. Cargo Aircraft
4. Vessels - Cargo and Fishing
5. International Mails
The avenues of smuggling listed above are not to be considered the
only routes by which cocaine is smuggled into Region 5. This study
is based on research of Customs Referral and related case files covering
documented arrests and seizures.
The Smuggler
1. US Smuggler - US Males and Females
2. Latin Smuggler - Latin Males and Females
Passports
1. United States Passports
2. Fraudulent South American Passports
FORD i LIBRARY 07V839
Research of Customs Referral cases during the period July 1,
1973 and June 30, 1975 revealed that 158,250 grams of cocaine was seized
at major international ports of entry and from international mails
within Region 5. These seizures resulted in the arrest of 162 individuals.
For the purpose of this study all cocaine seizures mentioned
in the reviewed case files were included regardless of gross
weight.
Avenues of Smuggling and Methods Employed
Five avenues of smuggling are discussed. They are commercial air-
line passengers and employees, private aircraft, cargo aircraft,
vessels (including cargo and fishing) and international mail. Fol-
lowing is a breakdown of the total amounts of cocaine seized by
avenue of entry:
Commercial airline passenger and
139,552 gr (88.1%)
employees
Private aircraft
4,650 gr ( 2.9%)
Cargo aircraft
3,036 gr ( 1.9%)
Vessels
6,730 gr ( 4.3%)
International Mail
4,282 gr ( 2.8%)
158,250 gr
1.
Cocaine smuggled by commercial airline passengers and airline
employees accounted for 88.1% of the cocaine seized in the Customs
Referral case files reviewed during the period of this study. A total
of 117,908 grams of cocaine was seized from passengers deplaning at
Miami - this accounts for 74.5% of all seizures covered in this report.
While this would tend to indicate that Miami International Airport
is the major cocaine route into Region 5 it should be recognized that
the major thrust of Customs Inspection personnel in Miami is directed
toward Miami International Airport.
The most used airline flight from South America was Aero-
condor Flight 192 from Colombia; Braniff Flight 976 from Colombia
FORD
was the second most used. These two flights were used by just
2
slightly more US couriers than Latins. Following is a breakdown
by point of departure of the 134 flights sampled involving cocaine
seizures:
Colombia*
105 (78.3%)
Ecuador
8 ( 5.9%)
Bolivia
7 ( 5.3%)
Peru
7 ( 5.3%)
Panama
3 ( 2.3%)
Bahamas
2 (1.4%)
Guatemala
1 (.75%)
Chile
1 (.75%)
*Boarding points within Colombia: 65 at Bogota, 15 at Barran-
quilla, 14 at Medellin, 5 at Cartagena, 4 at Cali and 2 at
Santa Marta.
While the above figures indicate that Colombia is the major
Source Country, intelligence information indicates that cocaine
produced in Argentina, Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador is brought into
Colombia for forwarding to the United States.
Twelve of the arrested couriers returned or traveled to the United
States via circuitous routes. The itineraries were usually from
Colombia to Curacao, Jamaica, St. Martin, or US Virgin Islands
and then to San Juan or Miami.
Some Latins and the majority of US couriers use two methods of
concealment - usually the body carry and concealed in a declared
article or in an article packed within their luggage.
The detected methods of smuggling used most by commercial airline
passengers fall into four major categories. Following is a break-
down of concealment methods and devices used:
Body Carry (taped to a part of
44 cases 28,676 gr
the body or in lining of clothing
worn)
Other*
47 cases 29,598 gr
3
False compartment luggage
21 cases 31,533 gr
Bottles**
9 cases 13,533 gr
Left under airline seat or in
2 cases 30,243 gr
luggage misplaced by airline
Shoes
12 cases 4,949 gr
Body Cavity***
5 cases 1,370 gr
*OTHER: Includes toilet article containers - all types and products (most
used method in this category), garter-type belt, smugglers vest and
girdles, food items, wig, ornamental metal stand, first aid kit, soldering
kit, back-pack tubing, bicycle seat posts and handle bars, lining of
hard-back books, wallets, envelopes, sanitary napkins, pillows, fishing
rods, professional sales samples of rugs, wooden carvings.
**BOTTLES: This includes 5,571 grams of liquid in liquor bottles
and 7.612 grams of powder in AMWAY detergent bottles and rum bottles.
***Body cavity appears to be used soley by US couriers.
With the exception of bottles and body cavity all methods
appear to be used equally by US and Latin couriers. One Latin
courier was arrested smuggling cocaine in a rum bottle.
The most sophisticated method of smuggling - used for liquid
cocaine - is in what appear to be authentically sealed liquor bottles.
Scotch bottles such as Chivas Regal, J&B, Dewars, and 100 Pipers are
used because the cocaine is supposedly impossible to detect because
of the color. There have been recent reports involving the use of
gin bottles, wine bottles and CINZANO Vermouth bottles. The employed
couriers allegedly bring back from 1 to 4 bottles containing 1/2 kilo
each. If they bring in more than the allowed quart, they declare
the extra and pay the duty. One known source of liquid cocaine
(G1-74-0098, Eduardo Metzler) reportedly ships 80 kilos each month
through Miami International Airport in liquor bottles. Metzler is
currently the subject of a Major Organization Report.
2.
Only two case files involving private aircraft were reviewed.
One involved the seizure of 1,600 grams of cocaine concealed in the
cabin area between the fuselage upholstery panels. The second involved
a private aircraft that made an unauthorized landing at Keystone Airport
and was off loading 3050 grams of cocaine into a pickup truck. While
these two cases are not identified as Customs Referral cases they are
included as examples of this avenue of smuggling.
Two unrelated General Files contained information from CI's
describing smuggling operations utilizing private aircraft loaded
with high-impact plastic and rubber thermos bottles capable of
holding 2 to 3 pounds of cocaine. These thermos are dropped over an
abandoned airfield near State Road 13, near Jacksonville, Florida.
3.
One seizure at the northwest ramp of Miami International Air-
port netted 3,036 grams of cocaine concealed in cargo pallets on
PAA Flight 312 from Jamaica. This seizure was the result of infor-
mation received from a CI. Three confidential sources of informa-
tion have reported observing the removal of packages (alleged to
contain cocaine and heroin) from the wheel wells and cargo compart-
ments of aircraft parked at the northwest ramp. The aircraft in-
volved belong to Aerocondor, LANICA, ANDES, TAN, TACA, and Aero-
naves de Mexico. General File Rafael MORILLO-Quinonez reports that
from 2 to 5 kilos monthly is shipped from Bogota to San Juan using
Iberia's in-bound warehouse. The cocaine is removed from suitcases
and the weight replaced with souvenirs. The cocaine is distributed
in San Juan and New York. Another General File, Gabriel Uribe Arango,
reports that cocaine is being concealed in oxygen tanks and other
equipment used in the exportation of live tropical fish from Leticia,
Colombia, to Miami, Florida. There have also been reports of con-
cealing cocaine in shipments of live tropical fish. General File:
Colombia - revealed that ATA, a company that among other cargoes,
transports native Colombian animals to Tampa for shipment to ZOOS
throughout the United States. ATA, in addition CO operating DC-3B's,
has at least two amphibious Cessnas. The CI who furnished this
information stated that ATA smuggles cocaine in multi-kilos and
the owners of ATA allegedly own a cocaine laboratory in the
southern part of Colombia.
4.
Only two cases involving seizures from vessels were reviewed.
Both couriers were seamen assigned to the ships. One had concealed
the cocaine in tennis shoes and in a locker near his own; he had
another seaman throw the shoes overboard in the Port of Entry. The
other courier had the cocaine in a brown paper bag in his locker.
On dates subsequent to the cut-off date of this study, over 70 pounds
of cocaine have been seized off vessels in the Port of Miami.
The defendant in G5-74-0005 reported that ships from Medellin
and Turbo, Colombia, bring at least 1 kilo per week into the Port of
Miami. The ships Captains deliver the cocaine to an unnamed hotel
in downtown Miami. The cocaine is then taken to New York via bus.
The subject of investigation in G1-75-0057 told U/C agents that he
had moved about 20 kilos of cocaine for his Peruvian source; the
cocaine is smuggled into South Florida on a barge type ship. The
Source of Supply pays the ship's captain and South American police
officials to ignore the smuggling.
While no Customs Referral case files involving seizures from
fishing vessels were reviewed, several General Files contained information
received from CI's concerning the use of fishing boats operating in
the Stock Island Fisheries, Key West, Florida. The cocaine is packed
under ice and off-loaded with the frozen catch. G1-74-0145 revealed
that one fishing boat had the capability of smuggling 50 kilos of
cocaine hidden in the gasoline tank - the tank had a 150 gallon capacity
and one 50 gallon section sealed off. G1-75-0118 contained information
that cocaine and heroin is. hidden inside freshly gutted fish, frozen,
and then off-loaded in the Florida Keys. This particular operation
distributes the narcotics to the Detroit, Michigan area.
5.
Seizures from international mails amounted to 4,282 grams and
ranged from 7 grams in letter parcels to 2½ pounds concealed in two
boxes of candy. Methods of concealment varied with gross amounts.
The smaller shipments were usually in letters or rolled magazines.
The larger shipments were in a variety of packages, food stuffs such
as boxes of rice, souvenirs, hollow candles and wood carvings. Few
parcels had return addresses, the majority had either partial or no
return address. All but 5 of the sampled 22 seizures were mailed from
Colombia.
THE SMUGGLER
During the period of this study 162 couriers were arrested -
attempting to smuggle cocaine into Region 5. The age of the 162
couriers ranged from 17 to 74. The majority - 41.3% - were in the
21 to 25 year age group. United States citizens comprised 75.3% of
those arrested.
US
The typical US courier, both male and female, is in the 21 to
25 year age range. Their occupational backgrounds cover a wide range
of skilled and unskilled jobs such as teacher, computer programmer,
registered nurse, farmer, mechanic, bookkeeper, baker, dancer, laborer,
waitress, restaurant owner.
Nineteen of the sampled US couriers had made from 1 to 5 trips
to South America prior to their arrest. The defendant in G1-74-0083
had made 3 prior trips to South America and was involved in an on-
going conspiracy case (G1-73-0350) at the time of his 1974 arrest.
US Males: Thirty percent (30.0%) of the 81 US males arrested
had prior arrests records - the majority of which were drug related.
Judging from the available photographs the majority of US males
arrested in the age range of 21 through 30 had long, shoulder length
hair, were dressed casually and carried little luggage.
6
US Females: The youngest and the oldest couriers arrested were
US females - 17 and 74. Only one US female had an arrest record -
murder charge later dropped.
Based on their statements the majority of the girls were re-
cruited by men friends or by men they were introduced to by girl
friends. The recruiter furnished money for transportation, hotel,
and living expenses, spending money and if necessary, assisted in
obtaining the passport. After travelling to South America, the girl
or in several instances, 2 or 3 girls, would meet the recruiter in
the source country. The recruiter would give the girl(s) the cocaine
with instructions to meet him after clearing customs. There were a
few instances where the girl was to deliver the cocaine in her home
city.
Case File G5-74-0031 is an example of several couriers on one
flight. The defendant was carrying 1460 grams of cocaine. During
the subsequent investigation her address book revealed the names of
three associates who were manifested on the same incoming flight -
all three were alleged to be carrying the same amount of cocaine and
had cleared Customs with no problem.
One US female was carrying $4,100.00 in counterfeit US currency
at the time of her arrest.
Latin Couriers
The typical Latin courier appears to be from the lower
economic class who accepted the courier job for promised economic gain
and the opportunity to travel to the United States. The majority
were from the unskilled job market. Most stated that they had been
provided fare, pocket money and the promise of being paid from $200.00
to $3,000.00 upon the successful delivery of the cocaine in the US.
Latin Male
The age range of the Latin males was from 19 to 48 with the
majority being in the 21 to 25 year age group. The true identity of
2 Latin males arrested with fraudulent documents was never established.
Two Latin males arrested were airline employees - a co-pilot for
Andes and a steward for Avianca.
Latin Females
Of the 9 Latin female couriers arrested, 8 were in the 36 to 44
year age bracket. They appeared to be rather plain, unobtrusive look-
ing, and usually appeared nervous. The majority told conflicting
stories as to how they came by the cocaine - claiming they did not
know they had the cocaine, or that they were merely delivering some-
thing for a friend or an unknown person who approached them in South
America. One Latin female was carrying $400.00 in counterfeit US
ten-dollar bills at the time of her arrest.
Following is a breakdown by sex, age and nationality
of the 162 couriers discussed in this study: *
All Couriers
All U.S.
All Latins
17-20
14
(8.6%)
12
(7.4)
2
(2.4)
21-25
67
(41.4%)
55
(33.9)
12
(7.4)
26-30
46
(28.4%)
37
(22.8)
9
(5.5)
31-35
19
(11.7%)
12
(7.4)
7
(4.3)
36-44
11
(6.8%)
2
(1.2)
9
(5.5)
45-up
5
(3.1%)
4
(2.4)
1
(.62)
162
122
40
All Males
U.S. Males
Latin Males
17-26
6
(5.3%)
4
(3.5)
2
(1.79)
21-25
50
(44.6%)
38
(33.9)
12
(1.79)
26-30
36
(32.2%)
28
(25.0)
8
(7.14)
31-35
14
(12.5%)
7
(6.2)
7
(6.2)
36-44
3
(2.7%)
2
(1.79)
1
(.89)
45-up
3
(2.7%)
2
(1.79)
1
(.89)
112
81
31
All Females
U.S.
Females
Latin Females
17-20
8
(16.0%)
8
(16.0%)
-
21-25
17
(34.0%)
17
(34.0%)
-
26-30
10
(20.0%)
9
(18.0%)
1
(2.0)
31-35
5
(10.0%)
5
(10.0)
-
36-44
8
(16.0%)
-
8
(16.0)
45-up
2
(4.0%)
2
(4.0)
-
50
41
9
* Percentages based on total of each category.
PASSPORTS
United States Passports: Not all case files contained detailed
information on US Passports. Those files that did, however, revealed
that 16 persons arrested had made from 1 to 5 trips to South America
prior to their arrest. The duration of these trips averaged from
3 to 5 days each. One case involved the arrest of 3 women traveling
together and the seizure of 3 kilos of cocaine because an alert' INS
Inspector noticed that all 3 girls had new passports and had spent
only 3 days in Colombia. Another possible indicator is a passport
that has been issued to replace a lost or stolen passport. One case
file concerned a replacement passport with a validity of only 3
months. The original passport was reported "either lost or destroyed
in a move". The individual concerned had traveled previously to
Turkey and South America.
South American Passports - Fraudulent: Fourteen Latin couriers were
carrying fraudulent passport when arrested (5 females and 9 males).
There were 10 fraudulent Colombian and 1 each from Nicaragua, Costa
Rica, Honduras, and Ecuador. No identifiable pattern could be formed
on these passports because of the limited information in the local
case files. The serial numbers on the Colombian passports were not
in serial letter or numerical order. The true identity of two Latins
traveling on fraudulent passports was never established.
According to an INS Supervisor one problem encountered with fraudulent
passports, particularly Colombian, is that like US passports, owner-
ship rests with the issuing government not the individual. In many
instances those fraudulent passports returned to the government of
ownership reappear in the United States within months
Due to the considerable expense and time involved in obtaining fraudu-
lent passports, multi-entry US vísas are preferred rather than obtain-
ing a US visa for each trip.
Some possible indicators of fraudulent passports are:
a. Slightly different color and weight of paper on the
double page containing the photograph and seal. This is
caused by the difference in age and type of paper.
b. Empty stitching holes in the outside center fold of
the passport cover caused by removing the page containing
the photo, physical description, and seal.
FORD & LIBRARY 076839
C. In cases where the photograph has been replaced
the nap of the paper would be raised perceptively
higher than the area of paper immediately surround-
ing the photo - more noticeable on the reverse side.
d. A slight or pronounced double image of the official
seal.
e. Couriers traveling under a false name cannot
usually match the signature on the fraudulent document.
In those instances where an Inspector is suspicious, a
check of the signature on the Customs Declaration form
against the passport signature is useful. Since most
nationalities other than US must carry some form of
identification - such as a Cedula -checking the pass-
port against the Cedula could also be helpful.
f. Multi-entry US visas used with abnormal frequency.
SUMMARY
It is impossible to estimate the amount of cocaine - or any drug -
successfully smuggled into the United States through Region 5 yearly.
The State of Florida and Commonwealth of Puerto Rico have in excess of
9,000 miles of shoreline, inlets, and waterways that are easily access-
ible by boat. Additionally, Florida's topography provides many miles
of flat terrain and roadway which can be used to land airplanes. Com-
pounding the problem is the large number of planes and boats regis-
tered within the entire Region. Within Florida alone there are
9,138 aircraft, 210,782 commercial vessels, and 465,112 pleasure craft
registered.
Miami International Airport handles more import/export cargoes than
any other airport in the United States and is second only to New York's
JFK in international passenger traffic. An estimated 1,500,000 inter-
national passengers clear the US Customs enclosure at Miami Interna-
tional Airport each year.
Cruise ships returning from foreign ports of call debark thousands of
passengers at the Port of Miami, Port Everglades, and San Juan, Puerto
Rico.
Manpower limitations render it impossible to conduct a thorough
inspection of every international passenger and crew member entering
Region 5 each year. Additionally, many US and foreign tourists are
offended and annoyed by what they consider unnecessary delays in
clearing customs after a trip.
The coastlines of Florida and Puerto Rico alone offer ample oppor-
tunity for small boats to smuggle narcotics into the United States.
Puerto Rico appears to be a major transshipment point for drugs
from South America, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, and other areas
within the Caribbean. One source of information, (GF-Luis F. Marazza)
reported that an Argentinian national had offered multi-kilos to
potential buyers. This Argentinian allegedly states that he had
"government officials who could move multi-kilo quantities of cocaine
safely into the US". He reportedly travels to Puerto Rico with fre-
quency and has been known to ship pre-buy samples of cocaine into
Puerto Rico via registered mail.
With trade embargos lifted, Cuba will undoubtedly again become a
major transshipment point for narcotics into the United States.
While there is probably no one solution to stop the illicit flow of
drugs into the United States there are several deterrents. The
primary key to success in any war against illicit drugs is the complete
cooperation and communication between the various agencies involved -
at all levels of law enforcement.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1. DEA personnel assigned to overseas areas should be
encouraged to establish liaison with the visa offices
within our Embassies and Consulates in order to check
for applications for US visas - (particularly multiple
entry) made by indigenous personnel who fall into the
following categories:
Lower economic class with limited education;
no US based relative; unskilled job background
such as dressmaker, domestic, waitress, waiter;
no prior foreign travel; limited financial assets;
estimated length of stay in US to be less than
7 days. Those names falling out could be placed on
Lookout for INS and Customs.
2. Develop more sources of intelligence information from with-
in the international transportation and shipping communities
in order to obtain a larger reservoir of information on possible
smuggling routes and methods. Freely exchange this information
within the agencies concerned.
3. Up-grade the enforcement effort against cargo aircraft, air-
line personnel, and passengers.
4. Enter descriptive data such as numbers, visa numbers, dates
used, and physical descriptions of all seized fraudulent passports
into NADDIS, TECS, and SOUNDEX Systems.
Related Files:
G1-73-0112
G1-73-0235
G1-73-0321
0119
0238
0326
0136
0245
0333
0145
0282
0337
0153
0284
0339
0174
0285
0348
0177
0286
0361
0216
0301
0373
0219
0314
0374
0222
G5-73-0063
0064
G6-73-0012
G8-73-0014
G1-74-0001
G1-74-0150
G1-74-0252
0009
0164
0253
0010
0170
0254
0032
0174
0264
0037
0177
0265
0038
0180
0287
0039
0181
0299
0050
0183
0300
0053
0184
0302
0054
0189
0303
0066
0190
0306
0073
0196
0312
0078
0197
0317
0083
0202
0318
0092
0206
0324
0095
0213
0325
0125
0224
0334
0128
0230
0339
0136
0234
0357
0139
0235
0363
0143
0245
0369
0149
0251
0373
G4-74-0020
G5-74-0005
G5-74-0031
G5-74-0063
0011
0035
0068
0012
0041
G6-74-0008
G6-74-0020
G6-74-0033
0016
0026
G8-74-0017
0026
G1-75-0001
G1-75-0060
G1-75-0122
0002
0070
0127
0006
0073
0131
0010
0075
0132
0011
0080
0133
0015
0102
0142
0016
0106
0143
0018
0112
0144
0026
0113
0156
0037
0119
0164
0045
0120
0166
0057
0121
G4-75-0003
G4-75-0020
G4-75-0055
0017
0022
G5-75-0004
G5-75-0017
G5-75-0025
0013
0024
G6-75-0006
G6-75-0031
G6-75-0040
0021
0038
GF-Customs Mail Room Seizures
GF-Liquid Cocaine
GF-Cocaine Smuggling
GF-Colombia
GF-Smuggling
Supreme Court of Florida, Public Report on the First Statewide
Grand Jury on Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs
Narcotics Control Digest - Vol. 5, January-July 1975 Issues
Individual "Name" Files
&
GERALD
DISTRIBUTION:
Regions
1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13,
14, 15, 18.
District Offices
Bogota, LaPaz, Quayaquil, Montevideo,
Buenos Aires, Santiago, Panama, Quito,
Charleston, Columbia, Atlanta, Savannah,
Tampa, Jacksonville, Orlando, West Palm,
San Juan, Jamaica.
Other
U.S. Customs, Miami, Fla.
U.S. Immigration & Naturalization
Service, Miami, Fla.
DEA Headquarters - IGIL, EOIL, IGDE,
EDIF, IGR.
Cap did in fact sign the drug
regulations on Friday and sent
them to the Federal Register.
They probably will not be published
until tomorrow.
Today's Wall Street Journal has
quite a story on the regs.
RECEIVED
JUL29 8 1976
GENTRAL FILES
wall street Journal
7/28/75
7/28/75
Drug Industry
Fails to Block
U.S. Price Plan
HEW Controls Seen Saving
Over $60 Million a Year in
Medicare, Medicaid Costs
By JONATHAN SPIVAK
Mtaff Reporter of THE WALL STREET JOURNAL
WASHINGTON-The drug industry lost a
long and bitter battle to block imposition of
cost controls on $2.7 billion in annual gov-
ernment drug purchases.
Health, Education and Welfare Secretary
Caspar Weinberger, in one of his final ac-
tions as head of the department, ordered
into effect proposed drug regulations that
would limit federal purchases under Medi-
care and Medicaid to the lowest-priced gen-
erally available product.
The government's savings from the rules
are estimated initially at $60 million to $75
million annually. But the long-run impact
could be far greater and the cost controls
J Cannon file
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 31, 1975
Dear Mrs. Lowengart:
Richard D. Parsons, Associate Director and Counsel of the
Domestic Council and Chairman of the Domestic Council Drug
Review Task Force, will be traveling to countries in Europe
and South America to study drug abuse and prevention programs.
This will be your authority to issue him a no-fee diplomatic
passport for official travel.
When the passport is ready, please telephone his office,
456-2562, and arrangements will be made to pick it up.
Thank you very much.
Sincerely,
/51
James M. Cannon
Assistant to the President
for Domestic Affairs
Mrs. Carolyn S. Lowengart
Chief
Diplomatic and Congressional Section
Passport Office
Department of State
1425 K Street, NW.
Washington, D. C. 20524
RECEIVED
FORD i LIBRARY GERALD
JUL 29 1976
CENTRAL FILES
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
July 30, 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR THE PRESIDENT
FROM:
Jim Cannon
SUBJECT:
Turkish Arms Embargo
In testifying before the House Subcommittee on Future Foreign
Policy Research and Development on July 28, Administration
witnesses (State, Drug Enforcement Administration and U.S.D.A.)
all confirmed evidence that the Turkish government has shown
determination to control its new poppy crop; has instituted
new control measures; and, as a result, no significant illegal
narcotics diversion to U. S. markets is expected.
Following the hearings, Congressman Charles Rangel, impressed
by this favorable assessment of Turkish control efforts,
indicated his belief that at least 15 Congressmen who voted
against lifting the Turkish arms embargo did so more because
of narcotics-related problems than because of Cyprus. Congress-
man Rangel has indicated to me and to others in the Administration
that he could deliver these Congressmen on a second vote on the
arms embargo if the Administration were to agree to take some
steps on the antinarcotics front, demonstrating high-level
concern with the drug problem.
Illustrations offered by Rangel of the kinds of steps which
could be taken on the domestic side are:
A strong Presidential public affirmation of the
importance of the war on illicit narcotics.
A special Presidential message to the Congress
urging action on domestic enabling legislation
for the International Convention to Control
Psychotropic Drugs.
Presidential backing of legislation to establish
minimum sentences for nonaddict drug pushers.
Appointment of a Special Assistant in the White
House to keep the President up to date on the
LISAREY GERALD R FORD
drug scene.
RECEIVED
Strong support for Drug Enforcement Administration
budget requests.
2
Illustrations offered by Rangel of suggested steps on the
international side are:
Undertake to persuade Turkish Prime Minister Demirel
to make a public statement at the close of this year's
poppy harvest, describing and reaffirming strict
control measures, and inviting interested foreign
governments and international organizations to view
them.
Undertake to persuade Prime Minister Demirel to
establish within the Turkish government a high-
level, centralized agency which could control all
steps and processes involved in poppy production
and the control thereof.
Undertake to persuade the Government of Turkey
to call an International Conference of concerned
nations in Europe to discuss illicit traffic
control, inviting their representatives to
inspect the Turkish controls.
Rangel emphasized that it is not necessary for the President
to endorse each of his suggestions; but, rather, simply to
show some interest in the domestic and international antinarcotics
fronts.
ASSESSMENT
As you know, the Domestic Council Drug Review Task Force is
currently reviewing the overall Federal effort in the treatment
and prevention of drug abuse. The Task Force expects to present
you with its assessment and recommendations by mid-September.
I am advised, however, that most of Congressman Rangel's
suggestions for domestic action are consistent with the tentative
findings and conclusions of the Task Force. I am further advised
by the State Department that the establishment of a high-level,
centralized unit to control and coordinate poppy cultivation is
under consideration by the Turkish government.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1. That you authorize me to contact Congressman Rangel
for the purpose of informing him of the Domestic
Council review, assuring him of the high priority
3
which the Administration places on the war on
drugs and discussing positively his suggestions
concerning the psychotropics convention and other
areas where strengthened domestic legislation may
be called for.
2.
That you discuss with Secretary Kissinger the
appropriateness of raising the poppy question
with Turkish Prime Minister Demirel during their
scheduled talks.
3. That you send Congressman Rangel a telegram
informing him of your interest in this matter
(see proposed statement at Tab A).
A
SUGGESTED CABLE TO CONGRESSMAN RANGEL
Dear Charlie:
I have been informed of the hearings last Monday
before the House Subcommittee on Future Foreign Policy
Research and Development and of your contributions and
suggestions to forward our strong mutual interest in control
of illicit drug traffic and use. We are continually searching
for ways to improve the effectiveness of our attack on this
problem, which is of prime importance. I expect to receive,
by mid-September, the report of the special White House Drug
Review Task Force which I directed to review the overall
Federal effort to combat and treat drug abuse. I have asked
for proposals for actions which might be taken by the
Branches
Executive and the Legislative so that we may deal more
effectively with both the supply and demand sides of the
problem. I look forward to sharing the results of the Task
Force effort with you.
We can never forget what the flow of Turkish-based heroin,
coming through the French connection, meant to us in earlier
years. During my meeting with Prime Minister Demirel, I
discussed this matter and heard from him about the steps that
his government has taken to follow through on its promise that
its renewed poppy production will be controlled SO as not to
bring harm to other societies. I encouraged him to continue
to consider suggestions from all interested nations in the
concerned world community on this matter.
GENALD FORD
2
I look forward to discussing the drug abuse situation
with you after I return. In the meantime, as you know,
I am vitally concerned, as a matter of clear national
interest, that my proposals for lifting the embargo on
arms to Turkey be accepted by the Congress. I hope that
you will help in this matter and I will be grateful for
your assistance there. I sincerely believe that our ability
to influence Turkey's program of opium control will be enhanced
by such $ statesmanlike action.
GERALD R. FORD