Shelly Howe: Inside the DEA's Fight Against Drug Cartels
Episode Overview
Shelly Howe shares her extensive career journey in law enforcement. The DEA's mission focuses on reducing the supply of illicit drugs. Personal stories from undercover work highlight unexpected gratitude from arrestees. Educational initiatives like the Red Ribbon campaign aim to prevent drug use. Parents need to be vigilant about online drug purchases by their children.
Every single person I arrested ultimately thanked me because that was a way for them to turn their life around
In this gripping episode of 'High Truths on Drugs and Addiction', Dr. Roneet Lev sits down with Shelly Howe, the Special Agent in Charge of the San Diego DEA. Shelly takes us on a journey through her remarkable career in law enforcement, starting from her early days with the Iowa Department of Public Safety to her current role tackling drug cartels in San Diego.
Shelly's candid reflections on her undercover work, balancing motherhood, and the DEA's mission to combat the supply of illicit drugs make for an engaging and eye-opening conversation. Shelly shares personal anecdotes from her time working undercover, highlighting the unexpected gratitude she received from those she arrested. She emphasises the importance of attacking the supply chain of drugs like fentanyl, which has devastating effects on communities.
Shelly's insights into the daily operations of the DEA, including their overdose response teams and collaborative efforts across San Diego, provide a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and triumphs in the fight against drug trafficking. The episode also delves into the human side of law enforcement, as Shelly discusses the emotional toll of losing colleagues and friends to drug-related incidents.
She passionately advocates for educating parents about the dangers of drug emojis and online drug purchases, stressing the need for vigilance in today's digital age. Her stories of community engagement and educational initiatives, like the Red Ribbon campaign, underscore the DEA's commitment to prevention and awareness. Dr. Lev and Shelly's conversation is both informative and heartfelt, offering valuable insights into the complexities of drug enforcement and the personal dedication required to make a difference.
If you're looking for an episode that combines real-life stories with practical advice on combating drug addiction, this one is a must-listen.