Trump's DEA Nominee Denies Involvement in Foreign Violent Incidents

Allegations of Involvement in Colombian Operation

• 💡 Terrance Cole, President Trump's nominee for DEA administrator, addressed reports alleging his involvement in a 2006 ambush of a Colombian police unit.
• 🎯 Cole stated that the operation was conducted by the Colombian National Police, with no DEA involvement, intelligence, or presence on the ground.
• ⚠️ The ambush was carried out by the Colombian military, who were reportedly paid by the North Diva cartel, and the soldiers involved were later convicted of war crimes.
• ✅ Cole emphasized that he was not involved with this case and that it was an independent investigation by the Colombian National Police.

Intelligence Leak Allegations

• 🔍 Regarding reports of mass killings in Alande by the Trevino brothers (Zetas cartel leaders), CNN cited anonymous critics suggesting an intelligence leak from Mexican authorities.
• 🚫 Cole confirmed that there was no determination by the DEA that an intelligence leak led to the killings.
• ❌ He explicitly stated that he did not directly transfer intelligence to Mexican authorities.
• 🤝 Cole affirmed that he followed all DEA policies and obtained proper supervisory approvals regarding the handling of intelligence.
• ❓ He also confirmed that he was never investigated or accused of any wrongdoing.

Ongoing Investigations and Cartel Activity

• 📈 Cole noted that the case involving the Trevino brothers is ongoing, with Zeta 40 and 42 (Trevino brothers) recently extradited to the United States.
• ⚠️ They are facing charges related to drug dealing and cartel activity, and are implicated in distributing substances that have caused numerous deaths in the U.S.

Challenges Facing the U.S. Marshals Service

• ⚖️ When asked about challenges facing the U.S. Marshals Service, Cole identified judicial security as a top priority, emphasizing a review of resources and technology to detect threats.
• 🔍 The second priority is the sex offender investigations branch and the missing child unit, missions he believes are crucial for America and its children.
• 🚀 The third priority is regional fugitive task forces, which are essential for apprehending violent criminals and require adequate staffing.