FLAGSTAFF HUB FOR DRUG TRAFFIC

With two interstates leading through Flagstaff, the city has become a hot
spot for drug trafficking, prompting federal drug agents to increase their
presence there.

The illegal drugs, which come from Mexico and California, are transported
through Flagstaff then distributed throughout the country, said Asa
Hutchinson, administrator of the federal Drug Enforcement Administration.

Hutchinson said that within three months, the agency will place two DEA
agents in Flagstaff, housing them in the city's FBI office.

The agency will then seek approval to build its own office in Flagstaff.

Marijuana, cocaine and heroin frequently are smuggled into the country from
Mexico, arriving in Flagstaff on Interstate 17 before they are distributed
throughout the country, Hutchinson said.

Methamphetamine, mostly produced in Southern California, enters the state
through Interstate 40 and makes its way through Flagstaff before reaching
other U.S. destinations.

Also, the increasing popularity of Ecstasy among college students, which
Hutchinson believes will continue to rise, is another reason for the DEA to
open an office in Flagstaff.

"Ecstasy is a growing issue among teens and college students," he said.

"You look at Northern Arizona University, certainly a good school where you
have 15,000 students in that area. Obviously drug use (is a concern) and
you want to make sure there is a presence there from a law enforcement and
education standpoint."

Arizona Sen. Jon Kyl requested the Flagstaff DEA office after noting an
increase in drug trafficking and methamphetamine laboratories in the area.

"This should be a clear signal to illegal drug dealers and manufacturers in
Northern Arizona that their days are numbered," Kyl said.