Podcast Summary: "Getting Raided by the DEA with 'Myron'"

The Church of What's Happening Now: The New Testament
Episode: Getting Raided by the DEA with "Myron"
Hosts: Joey "Uncle Joey" Diaz and Lee Syatt
Release Date: March 25, 2025

1. Introduction

In this episode, comedian and actor Joey Diaz welcomes his guest, Myron, a retired DEA agent, to discuss his experiences within the Drug Enforcement Administration. The conversation delves into Myron's career, undercover operations, interactions with various drug cartels, and the evolving landscape of drug enforcement over the decades.

2. Guest Background: Myron's DEA Career

Myron provides an overview of his extensive career in the DEA, highlighting his progression from a local N.J. police officer to an FBI agent and eventually joining the DEA in 1990 after overcoming a hiring freeze.

Myron (06:16): "...I graduated in 1987 from Fairleigh Dickinson. And then shortly thereafter, I made my way to the DEA..."

3. Early Experiences in Law Enforcement

Myron recounts his initial years working in a county jail, emphasizing the challenges of maintaining order and the importance of developing instincts in a high-stress environment.

Myron (07:28): "Once they lock the doors and you're in there with 150 guys... you had to be on your P's and Q's."

4. Transition to the DEA and Undercover Operations

Discussing his transition to the DEA, Myron shares insights into undercover operations, the use of informants, and the strategic aspects of building cases against high-level drug traffickers.

Myron (26:07): "I had to start low... Sometimes you're talking businesspeople, Colombians, Mexicans now, right. ... making buys for like 40,000 to people."

5. Notable Cases and Stories

Myron narrates several compelling stories from his DEA tenure, including:

• The Marathon Incident (07:06): A case where an inmate was forgotten in a holding tank, leading to severe consequences and a substantial lawsuit.

  Myron (07:24): "This guy stayed in... he was drinking from the toilet bowl."

• Asset Forfeiture Management (46:23): Managing significant amounts of seized assets and ensuring their secure transportation.

  Myron (109:02): "I ran Asset Forfeiture, which was... taking millions to Brinks each week."

• Interceptions of Major Drug Traffickers: Encounters with notable figures like El Chapo and infiltrating various drug operations.

  Myron (124:04): "We locked up Mario Gallo... he was one of the guys responsible for killing Gus Farace."

6. The Evolution of Drug Enforcement

The discussion highlights how drug enforcement strategies have evolved, particularly with the rise of synthetic drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamine, and the shift in drug trafficking methods.

Myron (68:29): "Meth is never gone. ... Times have changed with fentanyl and other synthetic drugs."

7. Challenges and Frustrations

Myron expresses frustrations regarding political influences on law enforcement, the cyclical nature of drug markets, and the difficulties in maintaining effective operations amidst evolving drug trends.

Myron (98:13): "The politics plays a big part... Life always goes back to money."

8. Reflections on the War on Drugs

Both hosts reflect on the long-standing war on drugs, its impact on communities, and the personal toll it has taken on individuals involved in enforcement and drug trafficking.

Joey Diaz (104:56): "The war on drugs... it's never fucking changed since 1980."

9. Current Drug Trends and Future Outlook

The conversation touches on current trends in drug usage, the role of technology in drug trafficking, and the ongoing battle between law enforcement and drug cartels.

Myron (86:06): "They're putting edible out of that in Mexico because you could. ... It's a big business."

10. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The episode concludes with Joey Diaz and Myron sharing final reflections on their experiences, the relentless nature of drug enforcement, and the personal sacrifices made in the pursuit of combating drug trafficking.

Myron (103:20): "These guys are making so much money off these guys... Somebody's got to be there."

Notable Quotes

• Joey Diaz on DEA Experiences:

  "When you're building the case. They already had them by the balls."
  (16:57)

• Myron on Informant Operations:

  "You just can't let, like, a lot of people illegalize this, legalize that. Nah, I understand."
  (103:06)

• Reflection on Changing Times:

  "Meth is never gone. ... Times have changed with fentanyl and other synthetic drugs."
  (68:29)

Key Takeaways

• Undercover Operations: Myron emphasized the complexity and risks involved in undercover operations, highlighting the necessity of trust and strategic planning in dismantling drug networks.

• Changing Drug Landscape: The shift from traditional drugs like cocaine and heroin to synthetic alternatives has posed new challenges for law enforcement, requiring adapted strategies and heightened vigilance.

• Political Influences: Political decisions and policies significantly impact the effectiveness of drug enforcement, often complicating efforts to curb drug trafficking.

• Personal Sacrifices: Both hosts acknowledge the personal costs associated with careers in law enforcement and the ongoing struggle to maintain personal relationships amidst demanding roles.

• Resilience and Adaptation: The persistent nature of drug trafficking underscores the need for continuous adaptation and resilience within law enforcement agencies to effectively address evolving drug-related issues.

This episode offers an in-depth look into the world of DEA operations through Myron's firsthand experiences, providing listeners with a nuanced understanding of the challenges and intricacies involved in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking.