Justice Department watchdog to review DEA tactic that permitted deadly fentanyl to hit streets
The DEA allowed dangerous fentanyl to reach U.S. streets instead of seizing it, in order to build larger cases against drug traffickers. The Justice Department's internal watchdog is now investigating how widespread this practice was. The tactic is controversial because it risked public safety.
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National story. 9 articles from 9 sources. Updated Aug 19, 2026.
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4 sourcesDEA Let Fentanyl Hit the Streets to Build Bigger Cases: DOJ Investigates How Far the Tactic Spread
Justice Dept. Watchdog To Review DEA Tactic That Allowed Fentanyl To Hit Streets
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2 developments- Aug 17Justice Department watchdog to review DEA tactic that permitted deadly fentanyl to hit streets
- Aug 18DEA Let Fentanyl Hit the Streets to Build Bigger Cases: DOJ Investigates How Far the Tactic Spread
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Quiet for 61 daysLast development · Aug 18 — DEA Let Fentanyl Hit the Streets to Build Bigger Cases: DOJ Investigates How Far the Tactic Spread