West Coast Cartel Wars | SGT Aaron Schmautz and Officer Brian Marvel
Jan 23, 2024
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SGT Aaron Schmautz and Officer Brian Marvel discuss the challenges of combating the fentanyl epidemic in Portland and San Diego. They explore the business model of the cartels, prosecuting drug dealers for murder, treatment programs for addicts, and the impact on youth.
The podcast discusses the challenges faced by law enforcement in combating the fentanyl epidemic, including the prevalence of fentanyl in the drug market in Portland and the need for strong political will and adequate laws to hold drug dealers accountable.
The podcast highlights the importance of effective prosecution in deterring drug dealers and holding them accountable for the devastating effects of fentanyl, showcasing a successful case in Placer County, California, where drug dealers were charged with murder, emphasizing the need for laws that allow for such charges.
Deep dives
The local role in addressing the fentanyl crisis
During a podcast episode, the local role in combating the fentanyl crisis is discussed. In Portland, fentanyl has become prevalent in the drug market, with Honduran nationals and active cartel members being involved in the distribution. Law enforcement faces challenges in interdicting fentanyl due to laws that have limited their ability to combat drug trafficking. The discussion highlights the need for strong political will and adequate laws to hold drug dealers accountable, as fentanyl is a dangerous substance that poses a significant health threat.
Prosecuting fentanyl dealers for murder
The podcast also delved into the topic of prosecuting fentanyl dealers for murder. It showcases a successful case in Placer County, California, where the district attorney was able to charge drug dealers with murder. While there were discussions about the need to prove intent and explore different levels of murder charges, the case demonstrates the importance of effective prosecution to deter drug dealers and hold them accountable for the devastating effects of fentanyl on communities. This approach aims to make it difficult to engage in criminal behavior, thereby creating a deterrent and protecting communities from the deadly consequences of fentanyl.
Challenges of decriminalization and the impact on treatment
Decriminalization of drugs, particularly in Oregon, is discussed, noting that it has not led to positive outcomes in terms of treatment access and reducing drug-related issues. The podcast highlights the disparity between the theory and reality of decriminalization, emphasizing the need for effective treatment programs and the importance of partnerships between law enforcement and providers. It further comments on the adverse consequences of decriminalization, such as the rise of the black market and the lack of tax revenue generated from marijuana sales. The discussion raises questions about the effectiveness of decriminalization in addressing addiction and drug-related problems.
Concerns about the cartels and the future of fentanyl production
The podcast explores concerns about the cartels, particularly the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, and the potential escalation of violence in Tijuana and its possible repercussions. The discussion contemplates the future of fentanyl production, raising the question of whether it could start happening locally, with production occurring in basements or clandestine locations within the United States. There is a concern that if fentanyl production becomes widespread in the country, it could lead to greater accessibility and addiction issues. The podcast also highlights the significant risk associated with counterfeit pills and the need to educate young people about the dangers and consequences of ingesting unknown substances.
As part of Rep. Crenshaw’s work on the Cartel Task Force, two officers from the West Coast joined him to share their perspectives of how local police departments are combating the fentanyl epidemic brought on by the Mexican drug cartels. SGT. Aaron Schmautz serves in the Portland Police Department and Officer Brian Marvel serves in the San Diego Police Department. They discuss the unique challenges facing both cities: Portland being a case study in drug decriminalization spinning completely out of control, and San Diego bordering the major cartel hub of Tijuana. They also share insights into the business model of the cartels, how fentanyl took over the local drug markets, the potential to prosecute dealers for murder, what good treatment programs for addicts look like, and much more.
SGT. Aaron Schmautz is a 19-year veteran of the Portland Police Department. He is the President of the Oregon Coalition of Police & Sheriffs (ORCOPS), a non-partisan organization that advocates on behalf of police officers, deputy sheriffs, and others in Oregon law enforcement organizations.
Brian Marvel is a 24-year veteran of the San Diego Police Department. He is an adjunct professor at the San Diego Regional Police Academy and President of Peace Officers Research Association.
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