DEA’s Fentanyl ‘Walking’ Policy Under Fire

Federal agents in Albuquerque allegedly allowed hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills to reach communities under a controversial “walking” tactic meant to catch higher-level traffickers, sparking outrage after a whistleblower DEA agent exposed violations of internal public safety policies. Despite the DEA’s claim that decisions were lawful and court records showing multiple sales occurred without immediate intervention, the agent’s complaint was dismissed and a new protocol gave agents more discretion — prioritizing investigative success over immediate seizure. This shift has fueled fears amid New Mexico’s record overdose deaths, which surged 23% recently. The agent argues this approach endangers lives and undermines law enforcement’s duty to protect public safety, while DOJ officials maintain actions were appropriate and posed no substantial risk. His whistleblowing reportedly led to professional retaliation, including blocked investigations and barred courtroom testimony — raising urgent questions about the cost of crime-fighting versus human lives. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/e6132211289eb55a