Reports: DEA Chief Leonhart Expected to Resign
WASHINGTON, April 21 (UPI) — The head of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration is expected to resign in the wake of revelations agents had overseas “sex parties” and engaged in other illicit and illegal activities while on and off duty, CBS News and CNN reported Tuesday.
Michele Leonhart, the first woman to lead the agency, has been dogged with problems for months, including a recent congressional hearing on an inspector general report that found DEA agents had prostitute parties in Colombia funded by drug cartels. The damning report found agents with “top secret” clearance allowed drug cartel leaders to keep watch over their electronics while participating in the parties. Cartel leaders apparently supplied the funds and girls for the parties. The agents involved received light, if any, punishments for their involvement.
The inspector general report also slammed the DEA for withholding and redacting key information during the investigation. U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings, a top Democrat on the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee, said the misconduct shows “a truly breathtaking recklessness by DEA agents who are sworn to protect our country.”
Friday, Leonhart sent an email to employees saying, “This employee misconduct has upset me for many reasons, but especially because it calls into question the incredible reputation DEA has built over more than 40 years.” She ended the email: “I want to thank you for your continued expressions of trust and confidence as we navigate through these rough waters. I know you will remain focused on our mission and the commitment to excellence that is the hallmark of who we are, and what we will always be at DEA.”
Last year, Leonhart and the Obama administration bumped heads when she appeared to resist federal rules, relaxing marijuana enforcement as states legalize the drug for recreational and medical usage.
Leonard, a career DEA agent, was confirmed as the top administrator in December, but has been working in an acting capacity since 2007. She began her law enforcement career as a Baltimore City Police Officer.
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