The Department of Justice Office of Inspector General announced a review of how DOJ handles investigations into fentanyl trafficking, focusing on the agency's risk assessment and mitigation practices. The review will examine DOJ-wide and agency-specific policies, protocols, guidance, and training, as well as how investigators apply them in the field.
The inspector general said it will focus primarily on cases from the last two years, though it may examine earlier fentanyl-related investigations when necessary for context. The review will seek to determine how DOJ evaluates and implements risk mitigation strategies, including interdiction; whether such strategies are delayed or declined and why; who approves these decisions; whether decisions are documented; and whether after-action reviews are conducted.
The inspector general said it will issue a public report when the review is complete. The agency noted it will not substitute its judgment for the legal or investigative decisions of DOJ personnel.