Drug Enforcement Administration: Quick Facts

Written and fact-checked by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

Nov. 12, 2026

News •

Alleged cartel leader wanted by the U.S. is captured in Mexico in operation aided by DEA intelligence • Nov. 9, 2026, 10:34 AM ET (CBS)

'3 Body Problem' Director Derek Tsang Joins DEA Series 'Group 41' • Nov. 7, 2026, 4:50 AM ET (Variety)

Opioid Users Found a ‘Miracle Drug’ to Help Them Quit. Then the DEA Banned It • Nov. 3, 2026, 5:00 AM ET (WIRED)

DEA approvals could bring big tax benefits for medical marijuana businesses • Oct. 30, 2026, 5:42 PM ET (AP)

Facts

Also Known As	DEA
Date	1973 - present
Areas Of Involvement	Drug Enforcement Administration ends body camera Use • controlled substance • drug trade

Photos

See All Images →

Topics

Central Intelligence Agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration KGB Federal Bureau of Investigation National Security Agency MI6 Mossad U.S. Secret Service U.S. Department of Defense Environmental Protection Agency