Working for the United States Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) in Savannah involves investigating drug activity along coastal Georgia, in addition to Savannah and surrounding Chatham County. Atlanta is a nucleus for drug traffic and distribution in the Southeastern United States and the drive to Savannah along interstates I-75 and I-16 is approximately 3 1/2 to 4 hours, making it convenient and accessible for drug trafficking.
The Job of A DEA Agent in Savannah
Investigations conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and its agents into illegal drug activity can take extended periods of time, involving undercover drug buys and surveillance work before an arrest can be made.
In December of 2012, the results of a two-year investigation were announced where the DEA worked with Chatham County police to intercept a shipment of more than 50 pounds of cocaine valued at almost $2.7 million on its way to Savannah, via I-16. In addition, firearms and 11 pounds of marijuana valued at $48,832, along with $312,769 in cash, were apprehended as part of the investigation as well.
Another area that’s on the radar for DEA agents in Savannah are so-called “pain clinics,” where addictive painkillers such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, and other drugs are administered unlawfully. The DEA in Savannah, along with other federal agencies and the Chatham Savannah Counter Narcotics Team, shut down and brought indictments against a clinic operating in Garden City in Chatham County that purportedly prescribed more than 4 million milligrams of oxycodone.
Savannah DEA Careers: How to Become a DEA Agent in Savannah
Those interested in a career as a DEA special agent should be aware that this is a mobile career, where personnel are subject to transfers, based on the requirements and focus of the United States Drug Enforcement Agency.
The steps of the year-long hiring process and qualifications are available here. Along with being in top physical condition, the federal government regards the most competitive candidates as those with a Bachelor’s degree (with a GPA of at least 2.95), a Master’s degree; or a LL.B. or J.D. degree.