For the first time in decades, the number of people charged with federal drug offenses in the U.S. has dropped sharply, according to a Reuters analysis of nearly 2 million court records. Between January and mid-September 2025, about 10% fewer individuals were prosecuted for drug violations compared to the same period in 2024, with a notable 24% decline in money-laundering cases linked to drug trafficking. Investigations into drug conspiracies and high-level trafficking have slowed as federal agents shift their focus toward immigration enforcement under directives from the Trump administration.
The overhaul, initiated shortly after Trump returned to office, redirected thousands of federal agents and over 700 prosecutors to prioritize deportations and immigration-related work. Officials said long-term drug investigations have stalled, with agents diverted from case development and prosecutors spending less time on existing cases. Although overdose deaths have declined slightly, largely due to wider naloxone use, drug seizures at the border increased by 6%, suggesting the trade continues even as prosecutions drop.
The shift has also affected related criminal cases, including gun violations tied to drugs, which fell about 5% this year. Critics argue the diversion of resources has caused cases to stagnate, while the administration maintains that its efforts targeting violent traffickers and transnational cartels remain strong. Despite promises of tougher drug enforcement, federal priorities now emphasize immigration, producing a historic low in drug-related prosecutions.
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