Distribution

Mexican and Asian DTOs and criminal groups, Caucasian criminal groups and independent dealers, and various street gangs, OMGs, and independent dealers distribute illicit drugs in the Northwest HIDTA region. According to the Northwest HIDTA, 98 DTOs are involved in drug distribution in the region: 38 are involved in wholesale distribution, 11 are involved in retail distribution, and 49 are involved in both wholesale and retail drug distribution.

Mexican DTOs and criminal groups distribute wholesale quantities of cocaine and Mexican methamphetamine, marijuana, and black tar heroin. They typically supply these drugs to various criminal groups, independent dealers, street gangs, and OMGs in the HIDTA region for lower-level distribution. Asian DTOs and criminal groups, predominantly Vietnamese, are the primary distributors of high-potency marijuana and MDMA at all distribution levels.

Caucasian criminal groups and independent dealers are the dominant wholesale distributors of marijuana produced in the HIDTA region. They also distribute wholesale quantities of high-potency Canadian marijuana and commercial-grade Mexican marijuana as well as locally produced powder methamphetamine and limited quantities of Mexican ice methamphetamine.

Retail-level drug distribution is conducted by various criminal groups, independent dealers, and street gangs. Mexican criminal groups distribute methamphetamine, Mexican marijuana, and Mexican black tar heroin at the retail level in the region. Caucasian criminal groups and independent dealers supply abusers with retail-level quantities of locally produced marijuana, locally produced powder methamphetamine, and MDMA. Asian criminal groups distribute retail quantities of high-potency Canadian marijuana and MDMA. Members of street gangs, primarily African American and Hispanic, and OMGs, including Bandidos, Gypsy Jokers, Iron Horsemen, and HAMC, distribute methamphetamine, powder cocaine, and crack cocaine at the retail level. Members of street gangs also distribute retail quantities of locally produced and Canadian marijuana.

Retail drug distribution generally takes place at open-air drug markets and prearranged locations. ODDs, particularly MDMA, are sometimes distributed at raves, in nightclubs, and on college campuses. Several Internet web sites advertise weekly rave events in the HIDTA region.

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