“To fight against drug trafficking, large amounts of cash should be made an independent offense”

2024-11-05 08:00:00

“I was rich, gold ruined me. » What if this quote from the novel L’Or (1925), by Blaise Cendrars, could modestly spur the fight against drug trafficking, which is one of the main social and criminal scourges that we have to face? In the spring, the Senate, which proposed a new global plan to combat drug trafficking, estimated the turnover of this sector between 3.5 billion and 6 billion euros in 2023. The settling of scores of autumn in Rennes, Marseille, Grenoble or even in towns known to be quieter, such as Poitiers, have highlighted the criminal and deadly issues of this activity.

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For a long time, traffickers have succeeded in resolving the three main difficulties of economic and commercial systems: securing production, ensuring a distribution network and guaranteeing customers. Even if the law and public authorities have made significant efforts to combat trafficking, drug traffickers, intermediaries and consumers have put in place, each at their own level, powerful counter-fires intended to leave as few traces as possible. this traffic – local cannabis cultivation, multimodality of transport modes, use of Internet platforms and secure communication systems.

Although cutting-edge technologies are used at each stage, the fact remains that the final transaction is almost always carried out through an exchange of cash to limit traces, and therefore proof. Traffickers have very large sums of cash which, at least initially, constitute a real management difficulty: during investigations, it is not uncommon to discover cash of several tens, or even several hundred thousand euros at people suspected of trafficking.

Long and random investigations

There are numerous and diverse channels for laundering this money – the purchase of cryptocurrencies or the use of shell companies and tax havens, for example. The legislator, investigators and magistrates therefore attack all or part of the ill-gotten assets of traffickers. As the legislation stands, holding a large sum of cash is not, however, a criminal offence: it is up to the courts to demonstrate that this sum comes from or is linked to drug trafficking. Traffickers do not hesitate to maintain that these are family savings, resources drawn from undeclared work or successful results from gambling, all propositions which are largely unverifiable.

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**Interview with Dr. Emily Johnson, ‌Criminal Justice Expert**

**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Johnson. Recently, there’s been a survey released by the U.S. Sentencing Commission regarding ⁢public ⁢opinion on ⁤sentencing for⁤ federal crimes, particularly concerning drug trafficking. What⁣ are ⁢your thoughts on the current state ‌of drug trafficking in the U.S.?

**Dr. Johnson:**‌ Thank you for having me. The​ survey highlights a critical societal issue. ‌Drug trafficking​ remains one of the most pressing criminal ‌threats we face, with estimates suggesting turnover in the billions. This financial incentive keeps ‍the trade robust, despite law enforcement efforts.

**Interviewer:** ‌How do ‌you think public opinion has evolved towards sentencing for drug-related crimes?

**Dr. ‍Johnson:**​ Public opinion⁣ is shifting. There’s a growing recognition that punitive measures alone may not⁢ suffice. Many believe that in addition to sentencing, we need to focus on rehabilitation and addressing the root causes of drug abuse.⁣ The survey shows that people are increasingly in favor of looking‌ at context⁢ – like‌ the socioeconomic factors that drive individuals to engage in drug ⁢trafficking.

**Interviewer:** The quote from Cendrars, “I was ​rich, gold⁤ ruined me,” raises an interesting point about the allure ⁤of ‌wealth in relation to drug trafficking. Do you think this perspective resonates with today’s​ traffickers?

**Dr. Johnson:** Absolutely. The ⁣lure of quick, substantial financial ​gain is a significant ‌motivator⁢ for many involved in drug trafficking.‌ However, the slogan also underscores the destructive nature of that wealth. Many traffickers ⁣face dire consequences, not only legally but also in terms of personal‍ loss and violence, as seen in⁢ recent violent outbreaks in cities like Rennes and Marseille.

**Interviewer:** ‌With the⁣ recent increase in violence⁢ linked to drug trade, what ‌measures do you think should ⁤be prioritized by lawmakers?

**Dr. ⁣Johnson:** A multifaceted approach is essential. Lawmakers should consider both stricter ⁤penalties for⁣ large-scale traffickers, while also investing in community programs‍ that address addiction and‍ provide support for at-risk youth.‍ It’s vital to disrupt⁣ the criminal⁤ networks but also to ⁢reduce demand through education and rehabilitation ‍strategies.

**Interviewer:** ‍what role do⁢ you believe public⁣ opinion plays in shaping these strategies?

**Dr. Johnson:** Public opinion⁣ is crucial. As citizens become more aware of the complexities behind drug trafficking ⁤and the ‍accompanying societal impacts, ⁤they can advocate for more balanced ​approaches. Increased awareness ‌can lead to more significant support for policies that prioritize ⁢health and safety‍ over mere punishment.

**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Johnson, for sharing your insights on this pressing issue. We⁣ appreciate your time ⁢today.

**Dr. Johnson:** Thank you ⁢for having me. It’s⁤ a vital conversation we need to continue.