Senator Feinstein Requests USDA to Consider Creating Interagency Network
to Combat Theft and Smuggling of Agriculture Products
August 8, 2000

Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) has requested the U.S. Department of Agriculture to consider creating an interagency agriculture enforcement network to combat problems associated with the theft and smuggling of agricultural products, and related pest infestations.

The proposal was developed by San Diego County District Attorney Paul Pfingst and San Diego County Sheriff William Kolender.

In a letter to Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman, Senator Feinstein wrote:
“The need for a new approach for enforcement and prosecution of agriculture related crimes arose during the recent Mexican fruit fly quarantine that affected a large area of San Diego County. In dealing with the theft and smuggling crimes, and related pest infestation regulations, it was apparent that a myriad of agencies had various responsibilities and authority over different aspects of the problems. As a result, a consensus developed on the need for a permanent federally sponsored interagency agriculture task force that can coordinate and focus efforts of the various agencies.”

“Given the history of growing exotic pest infestations in California, and San Diego’s vulnerability because of its proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border, I believe the proposal by Sheriff Kolender and District Attorney Pfingst is worthy of implementation. If legislation is necessary, I am prepared to offer it; however, to save time, an administrative action would be most helpful. I would like to know your views on this proposal.”