Colorado is facing a concerning surge in fentanyl seizures, with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) reporting record-breaking numbers. The DEA attributes this rise to cartels expanding into new regions and distributing larger quantities of the potent drug.
DEA officials have observed an increase in cartel activity across states like Utah, Wyoming, and Montana. They have noted the presence of drugs typically associated with cartels in regions like eastern Washington and even seen street gangs from Detroit and the East Coast entering Montana to capitalize on the high prices per pill.
Last year, the Rocky Mountain Field Division seized over 2.6 million fentanyl pills in Colorado, surpassing previous records. This year, the division is on track to exceed that number, with Denver experiencing a significant influx of fentanyl quantities that were previously more common in cities like Phoenix and Los Angeles.
According to the DEA, a staggering seven out of every ten illicit pills now contain lethal doses of fentanyl. The ease of production and high addictiveness of synthetic fentanyl pills have led to a continuous supply and demand cycle.
DEA investigations have revealed the involvement of criminal organizations in China in producing fentanyl for cartels at low costs. Mexican drug trafficking groups have been able to manufacture fentanyl in various settings, from sophisticated labs to makeshift facilities in Mexico.
Law enforcement officials like Sheriff Jason Mikesell of Teller County believe that the migrant crisis at the southern border has contributed to the surge of fentanyl in Colorado. Despite efforts by Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection to prevent the drug from entering the country, its availability remains a significant concern.
DEA spokesperson Dave Olesky emphasized the importance of addressing multiple factors contributing to the fentanyl crisis, including border security, outreach efforts, and education. Olesky highlighted the need for public awareness about the dangers of fentanyl, especially since the drug can be deceptively packaged to appeal to different demographics, including children.
Tragically, drug overdoses, primarily fueled by fentanyl, have become the leading cause of death for adults aged 18 to 45, as reported by the CDC. The rate of drug overdose deaths has nearly quadrupled from 8.2 per 100,000 people in 2000 to 32.6 per 100,000 in 2022, underscoring the urgency of addressing the fentanyl crisis.
