Defund the Cartels
Overview of the Defund the Cartels Policy: Disrupting Criminal Enterprises through Legalization and Enforcement
Introduction:
The Defund the Cartels Policy is a bold and comprehensive approach to dismantle the criminal networks responsible for human trafficking and the illegal drug trade, targeting their primary sources of revenue. By advocating for the legalization and regulation of most drugs, labeling cartels as terrorist organizations, and implementing stringent penalties for human trafficking associated with these groups, this policy seeks to cripple their operations and protect American and all citizens across the world from their devastating activities.
Hot take:
Let's get real: narco-organizations have too much power and they are able to render governments ineffective. Mexico is now a narco state. 1 in 5 voters in Mexico are employed by cartels. What can we do?
Many claim El Salvador serves as a shining example of how to stem narco violence. Their plan of 0 tolerance against narco-organizations been effective in bringing down record levels of crime across the country. However; President Bukele had a major advantage at the time his administration launched their strategy: the narcos were not aware of what was coming. In looking at other countries which are dealing with systemic corruption through all levels of government, one must look at taking a multi strategy approach.
Ecuador
I have personally spoke with members of cartels here in Ecuador. Ecuador currently has about 65,000 citizens employed or in service to the various factions in the country. In Quito, Ecuador there are over 5,000 members of Los Lobos. In Guayaquil, Ecuador there are over 7,000 members of Los Choneros.
Many prisons in Ecuador are run by the cartels. Guards inside the prison are not armed. Guards outside the prison carry weapons. Each prison has a limited number of guards on duty. Prisoners across Ecuador have automatic weapons and semi-automatic weapons with them in prison. Do you really think they are scared of any President? They are not because they know they control the country.
When speaking with former member of cartel and trans-national organizations, they will inform you there is only one solution: legalization and regulation of the cocaine trade. Why cocaine? Because the global market for cocaine is massive and is responsible for most narco-organizations profits (~80%).
Ex-cartel members are willing to go on record and state that legalization of cocaine would not end organized crime forever but it would render them a manageable threat as opposed to a force controlling governments.
For example: In Ecuador, a police officer might earn $900 per month. If a narco organization approaches this officer to corrupt him, they might offer $50,000 or $100,000. It is nearly impossible for the average person to turn down this opportunity.
We can compare the potential outcome of cocaine legalization to the success the United States had when they created the RICO laws to defund & capture the money-laundering networks of the big mafia crime families. Today the crime families exist but on a very small scale.
Key Objectives:
Legalization and Regulation of Drugs:
The policy calls for the legalization and regulation of most drugs, allowing the United States to take control of this lucrative market. This shift in policy aims to undermine the cartels' primary revenue source and redirect profits towards legitimate, regulated channels.
Declaring Cartels as Terrorist Organizations:
The policy advocates for the official classification of cartels as terrorist organizations, recognizing their destructive impact on society and national security. This designation empowers the Department of Defense to utilize force against these groups in order to protect American citizens.
Authorization of the Death Penalty for Foreign Nationals Linked to Terrorism and Human Trafficking:
The policy calls for the authorization of the death penalty for foreign nationals who can be conclusively linked to terrorist organizations and human trafficking. This measure reflects the gravity of their crimes and serves as a strong deterrent against engaging in such activities.
Strengthened International Cooperation:
Recognizing the global nature of cartels and their operations, the policy encourages increased collaboration with international partners, law enforcement agencies, and organizations dedicated to combating organized crime and terrorism.
Enhanced information sharing, joint operations, and extradition efforts will be prioritized to dismantle cartel networks.
Support for Victims and Survivors:
The policy places a strong emphasis on providing comprehensive support and rehabilitation services for victims and survivors of human trafficking. This includes access to medical, psychological, legal, and social services to aid in their recovery and reintegration into society.
Heightened Enforcement and Intelligence Operations:
The policy calls for increased investment in law enforcement and intelligence agencies to bolster their capabilities in tracking, apprehending, and prosecuting individuals involved in cartel activities.
This includes specialized training, technology, and resources to effectively combat organized crime networks.
Conclusion:
The Defund the Cartels Policy is a decisive and multi-pronged approach to disrupt the criminal enterprises responsible for human trafficking and the illegal drug trade. Through a combination of legalization, regulation, enforcement, and international cooperation, this policy aims to weaken the foundations of these cartels and safeguard American citizens from their destructive activities. By uniting legal, law enforcement, and military strategies, we strive to create a safer, more secure future for our nation and beyond.
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