FBI Phoenix Citizens Academy Alumni Association
We are always searching for topics that genuinely engage and inform our membership, especially those that offer a deeper look into complex global issues. Recently, Sherry Harrison—host of the widely respected Law Matters 1030 podcast and radio program and Director of Events-Tucson for the FBI Phoenix Citizens Academy—shared an especially compelling interview with Michael Vigil, former Chief of International Operations for the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Mr. Vigil’s career is nothing short of extraordinary. As one of the most highly decorated agents in DEA history, he led and coordinated some of the most extensive multinational anti-narcotics operations ever undertaken, including one that spanned 36 countries. His work helped shape modern global enforcement strategies, particularly through the development of intelligence-sharing platfor
ms that allowed agencies across borders to collaborate more effectively in real time—an innovation that continues to influence international law enforcement today.
Beyond his operational achievements, Mr. Vigil is also an accomplished author, offering readers an insider’s perspective on the world of organized crime. His books—including DEAL, Metal Coffins: The Blood Alliance Cartel and Narco Queen, and The Land of Enchantment Cartel—draw from real-life experiences and intelligence work, painting a vivid picture of the risks, strategies, and human stories behind cartel activity.
His service has been recognized not only in the United States but around the world. Among numerous honors, he was named an honorary General by the Afghan government, presented with the key to the city of Shanghai, and awarded an Admiral’s sword by former Dominican Republic president Hipólito Mejía—distinctions that reflect the global impact of his work.
In the podcast interview, Mr. Vigil shares fascinating, firsthand insights into the evolution of drug cartels—their origins, organizational structures, and the sophisticated methods they use to operate and expand. He discusses how cartels have transformed over time from loosely organized groups into highly strategic, business-like enterprises with diversified operations, advanced technology, and global reach. He also sheds light on the challenges law enforcement faces in combating these networks, including corruption, jurisdictional limitations, and the constant need to adapt to new tactics.
Perhaps most compelling are his personal stories - moments from the field that reveal both the danger and the complexity of international drug enforcement. These anecdotes not only bring the subject matter to life but also underscore the critical importance of cooperation, intelligence, and persistence in addressing one of the world’s most enduring challenges.
This interview offers a rare opportunity to hear directly from someone who has operated at the highest levels of global law enforcement, providing both education and perspective on an issue that continues to affect communities worldwide.
Here’s a brief soundbite from the interview.:
mike's_shocking discovery_ buying fentanyl online_sherry_harrison's s.mp4
To watch the entire 1 hour interview will cost less than some drinks at Starbucks!
