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Part 9: DEA Agent Abe Collins on the Fentanyl Crisis: Nobody Does Crack Anymore
Part 1: DEA Agent Abe Collins: When Crack Hit Memphis, Addicts Would Do Anything for the Next Hit
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In a recent interview, former DEA agent Abe Collins shed light on the complex role of drug lords like Mexico’s El Mencho and Colombia’s Pablo Escobar, explaining why they are often seen as local heroes despite their criminal activities. Collins noted that in impoverished regions, these figures gain immense influence by providing money, jobs, and community support, filling gaps left by weak governments. "They're local legends," Collins said, comparing El Mencho’s impact in Mexico to Escobar’s legacy, who even funded a soccer team in Colombia.
Collins highlighted the stark economic realities in these areas, where upward mobility is limited, pushing many to either accept or idolize such drug lords. He contrasted this with the U.S., where a middle class offers more legitimate opportunities. While advocating relentless pursuit of traffickers like El Chapo, Collins acknowledges the deep-rooted challenges in dismantling these criminal networks given their societal entrenchment.
