Articles

# White House Honors Law Enforcement Heroes in Fight Against Drug Trafficking

The White House
August 28, 2025

Washington, D.C. – Today, The White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) hosted the U.S. Interdiction Coordinator (USIC) Awards Ceremony, recognizing the extraordinary achievements of federal, state, and local law enforcement officers on the front lines of the nation’s fight against drug trafficking. The ceremony honored 10 individuals and task forces for their courage, innovation, and unwavering commitment to dismantling the criminal organizations that threaten American communities.

The event, held in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building at the White House, underscored the Administration’s proactive and aggressive stance against the flow of illicit drugs into the United States. Special Advisor Sara Carter and U.S. Interdiction Coordinator (USIC) Shannon Kelly presided over the ceremony, praising the honorees as true patriots defending the nation.

“A chemical war is being waged against the American people, and for too long, America has been on the defensive. This Administration has made a clear choice: the time for reactive measures is over. Our new posture is one of persistent and aggressive offense,” said Special Advisor Sara Carter. “Today, we honor the heroes who are taking the fight to the enemy. These men and women represent the very best of us, and we are committed to providing them with the resources and unwavering support they need to dismantle these networks and win this fight.”

The USIC Awards celebrate the full spectrum of the interdiction effort, from complex cyber investigations to high-risk maritime operations. The ceremony highlighted the creativity and dedication of law enforcement professionals who are developing new strategies to combat evolving threats.

“The actions we honored today represent moments of bravery, hours of painstaking investigation, and a level of dedication that is nothing short of heroic,” said U.S. Interdiction Coordinator Shannon Kelly. “The work of these patriots is the shield that protects American communities. Every seizure and every arrest has a real-world impact, saving countless lives. Their success is built on partnership, and it is a powerful reminder that our ability to operate as one unified force is our greatest strategic advantage.”

Among the distinguished honorees were:

- The Bitcoin Fog Government Trial Team, recognized for dismantling one of the internet’s oldest and most notorious cryptocurrency mixing services, which laundered over $300 million for darknet drug traffickers.
- The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Munro and its embarked Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron (HITRON) Detachment, for exemplary teamwork in the seizure of over 3,200 kilograms of cocaine in a daring maritime operation.
- The CBP Fentanyl Canine Detection Training Team, for developing a revolutionary program that has empowered officers on the front lines and led to a staggering 860% increase in fentanyl seizures at U.S. ports of entry.

The ceremony proudly recognized these patriots for their hard work, creativity, and willingness to defend America, sending a clear message that the White House is committed to taking a proactive stance against the scourge of illegal drugs.

To read more about President Trump’s priorities to protect the United States from the scourge of illicit drugs, click here.

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