Statement From DEA Special Agent In Charge Matthew G. Barnes

The following press release was published by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration on Oct. 19, 2011. It is reproduced in full below.

SEATTLE - The DEA is committed to the enforcement of federal drug laws in all states; however, it has never been DEA’s practice to target individuals with serious medical conditions. Marijuana remains listed as a dangerous, addictive Schedule I drug. Persons who are in the business of cultivating, selling or distributing marijuana, and those who knowingly facilitate such activities, are in violation of federal law, regardless of state law. The DEA will continue to exercise its investigative authority to pursue criminal organizations and individuals that are profiteering under the guise of medical marijuana.

Source: United States Drug Enforcement Administration