SJCPD's fight against drugs through "High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area" designation

SOUTH BEND, Ind. — Officials with the DEA, St. Joseph County Police Department, Indiana State Police, Mishawaka, South Bend and Pokagon Tribal police departments gathered at the county jail Tuesday to share their latest efforts in the fight against drug trafficking. 

St. Joseph County has been designated as a "High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area" (HIDTA); they're one of just two counties to receive the distinction in the U.S. of 15 applicants. 

HIDTA will help provide new resources for local police agencies including more funding, access to new technology, vehicles and crime-fighting equipment. 

One of the primary reasons officials say St. Joseph County was selected is that local police collaborate well within the region and with their federal partners. 

DEA representatives say that St. Joe County has become a significant piece of the drug trafficking pipeline in North Central Indiana, and they're putting cartels on notice that their days of running illegal activities in the area are numbered.