Los Angeles International Airport Reported to be the Drug Smuggling Hub of the World

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has emerged as a significant hub for drug smuggling on a global scale, according to law enforcement officers involved in a long-term investigation. The investigation, spanning four years, reveals that most drugs passing through certain jurisdictions enter via LAX.

Drug Smuggling at LAX

Local news outlet ABC 7 recently interviewed Sheriff Grady Judd of Polk County, Florida, regarding the ongoing investigation. Although based in Florida, Sheriff Judd's involvement highlights the extensive reach of drug smuggling networks. The investigation, initiated by local authorities and federal agencies, has led to numerous busts and arrests over the past four years. Sheriff Judd noted instances where multiple suitcases filled with drugs were discovered arriving on the same flight at Orlando International Airport, underscoring LAX's pivotal role in these operations.

Sheriff Judd emphasized the shared responsibility of stopping drug smuggling at airports. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screens luggage, but its primary mission is to detect weapons, incendiaries, and explosives, not drugs. Jason Pantages, the TSA's security director at LAX, clarified that as a non-law enforcement agency, the TSA notifies law enforcement if drugs are found.

Law Enforcement Responsibilities

ABC's report also included insights from LAX Police and the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). Chief Cecil Rhambo of LAX Police noted that while police handle various responsibilities at the airport, they do not screen bags. The DEA, as explained by Matthew Allen, focuses on investigative work to prevent drugs from reaching the airport in the first place.

Jurisdictional complexities add to the challenge. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) intervenes if airport employees use credentials to smuggle drugs or if drugs are found on a closed aircraft. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) handles international investigations but does not screen luggage.

The absence of a dedicated agency for screening bags for drugs at LAX makes smuggling easier. Sheriff Judd pointed out that drug cartels have adapted to existing infrastructures, negating the need for private airfields to smuggle drugs.

Challenges and Cooperation

The multi-agency approach to combating drug smuggling at LAX involves coordination among the TSA, LAX Police, DEA, FBI, and DHS. However, the lack of a single focused entity for drug detection in luggage presents significant challenges. This fragmented responsibility contributes to the ongoing smuggling issues, despite multiple agencies' involvement.

Sheriff Judd’s revelations highlight the need for more streamlined and effective cooperation among law enforcement agencies to tackle the pervasive issue of drug smuggling at LAX.