The rate of home burglaries has been noticeably down in communities with strict lock downs. This was because law enforcement interrogates people not obeying the rules, and checks their explanations thoroughly. Federal drug agents have apparently being having a field day too, with cartel activities in the spotlight. When there’s less hay in the haystack for drug cartels, it seems the needle is easier to find.
Less Hay in the Haystack Means Drug Cartels Take More Risks
Criminal activities have become more obvious in the last four weeks, Bill Bodner told NBS News. Special agent Bill manages the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Los Angeles field office. Cartels are also experiencing problems laundering money. They are hiding it in large stashes, which are rick pickings for law enforcement.
There’s a similar situation in New York City. Drug cartels traditionally purchase American goods from local stores and ship them out to China. Those stores and shops are tightly closed increasing the average value of federal busts from $100,000 to millions. Less hay in the hay stack for drug cartels makes it easier for agents to pick them off according to Bill Bodner.
Social Distancing is Increasing Policing on Streets Too
Driving drug money across state lines and into Mexico has become riskier with more time to search fewer vehicles. There’s a corresponding spike in airport busts, but that’s not the only impact on law enforcement.
Keith Martin is special agent in charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Detroit field office. He says social distancing has forced more agents out the office and into the streets. The more they are out there the better it is for the community.
Covid-19 is likely to be around for a while longer than we wish. In fact, our generation may wait a decade for things to return to normal. We hope there’s less hay in the hay stack for drug cartels for longer. This is because we are deeply concerned for the safety of our kids, as long as their schools remain closed.
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Preview Image: A Needle in a Hay Stack
