VNG Counterdrug Task Force leaders support Congressional education session

WASHINGTON   –   Leaders of the Virginia National Guard Counterdrug Task Force joined CDTF leaders from other states for an open house and education session for Congressional staffers hosted by the National Guard Association of the United States July 23, 2024, at the Cannon Office Building in Washington.

The open house provided Congressional staffers with the opportunity to learn about the program’s five key mission sets: criminal analysts, drug demand reduction outreach, ground reconnaissance, aviation reconnaissance and counterdrug schools. Information stations demonstrated the program’s collaboration with law enforcement and community-based organizations.

“We were very fortunate to be provided the opportunity to educate the Staffers on Capitol Hill last week,” said Lt. Col. Christina S. Perronie, commander of the Virginia Counterdrug Task Force. “The National Guard Counterdrug Program is a remarkable initiative that not only enhances national security but also plays a vital role in community support and public health. By leveraging the skills and resources of the National Guard, our program effectively combats drug trafficking and abuse, while fostering collaboration with local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, as well as community-based organizations.”

Perronie explained the Counterdrug Task Force is the only entity in Virginia that bridges the gap between local, state and federal law enforcement agencies, and she said that is a very powerful tool in the information sharing domain.

“Our commitment to prevention, education, and rehabilitation showcases a holistic approach to tackling drug-related issues, making it a beacon of hope and resilience in the fight against substance abuse,” she said. “This comprehensive approach not only strengthens community resilience but also empowers individuals and families affected by addiction, paving the way towards a healthier, drug-free future.”

The VACDTF provides support and training to law enforcement agencies and their drug prevention partners to curtail illicit drug trafficking and use.

Over the last 18 months, the VNG CDTF has supported law enforcement in a number of different operations.

VACDTF personnel supported the Drug Enforcement Administration Winchester Resident Office and the Northwestern Virginia Regional Drug and Gang Task Force throughout a monthslong investigation into a complex drug trafficking organization suspected of dealing in methamphetamine and cocaine and conducting wire transfers of suspected narcotics profits. VACDTF personnel supported the investigation by providing analysis of multiple data sources and also assisted with deconflictions amongst federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The VACDTF analyst established and maintained liaison between the DEA Dallas Field Division and HSI Offices of Memphis and Dallas. The VACDTF also contributed both aerial and ground reconnaissance assets during a pivotal point in this investigation.

This investigation succeeded in the identification and dismantling of the main elements of this DTO, and the Commonwealth of Virginia charged eleven individuals. Efforts of this investigation led to the seizure of 3.04 kilograms of cocaine, 10.4 kilograms of methamphetamine and $31,139 in cash. Critical information and resources shared with the DEA Dallas Field Division and Dallas HSI resulted in the arrest of the sources of supply to the DTO, the apprehension of a federal fugitive, the seizure of 24.6 kilograms of methamphetamine, 12 firearms, $26,190 in cash and the discovery of an illegal cockfighting ring with over 550 gamecocks with fighting blades. The VACDTF continues to support this investigation.

VACDTF personnel also assisted with Operation Never Enough where multiple agencies coordinated a search warrant of multiple locations in the Northern Virginia area resulting in the arrest of multiple targets and the seizure of more than five kilograms of counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl, more than two kilograms of fentanyl powder, more than one kilogram of cocaine, 2.5 kilograms of marijuana and two firearms. VACDTF personnel provided analytical support in the form of intelligence products such as analysis of multiple data sources.

VACDTF personnel supported Operation Shockwave, a case resulting in the combined seizure of 4.9 kilograms of fentanyl, more than 48,000 pressed fentanyl pills, more than six kilograms of cocaine, more than 3.7 kilograms of methamphetamine, more than 164 grams of heroin and 40 firearms.

The Lynchburg Police Department, along with the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, United States Marshal Service and other local, state and federal law enforcement agencies began investigating information about illegal drug and gun activity that was taking place in Lynchburg, Virginia. The Investigation revealed that high volumes of narcotics and weapons were being transported across the country, leading back to Mexican Cartels. VACDTF analytical support aided the investigative efforts by providing criminal background checks, operator's license photos, report analysis and assistance with corroborating case information.

In additional to analyst support, VACDTF personnel also provided tactical medicine training to 10 members of the FBI Richmond’s Violent Crimes and Violent Gang Squad. The training, known as Special Agent Lifesaver Training is based on the Army’s Tactical Combat Casualty Care, but was tailored for civilian law enforcement by members of the VACDTF. The students were FBI special agents, local law enforcement assigned to the FBI and FBI analysts.

While the group had various levels of medical experience, the goal was to provide a basic level of lifesaving training with scenario-based exercises. These scenarios were based on real situations that the participants could find themselves in while performing their duties. During the hands-on training, participants learned how to assess a patient, apply tourniquets, pack a wound and move a casualty. By the end of the one-day training session, participants developed the confidence to work as a team during a crisis and apply lifesaving skills.

For more information on the Counterdrug program please visit: https://www.counterdrug.info.

VNG Counterdrug Task Force leaders support Congressional education session

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