Central to the probe are DEA's Thomas Prevoznik, DEA's Matthew Strait and DEA attorney Aarathi Haig within the DEA's Diversion Control Division, whose conduct has raised serious questions about the integrity of the DEA's regulatory processes.
WASHINGTON, D.C., 3683 / ACCESS Newswire / April 8, 2025 / A federal investigation may be underway into allegations of corruption and systematic obstruction within the Drug Enforcement Administration Diversion Division (DEA), focusing on the agency's interactions with MMJ International Holdings. "Central to the probe are Attorney Aarathi Haig, Thomas Prevoznik and Matthew Strait senior officials within the DEA's Diversion Control Division, whose conduct has raised serious questions about the integrity of the DEA's regulatory processes", stated Duane Boise CEO MMJ International Holdings.
Background of an Investigation
The Justice Department's Office of Inspector General may initiate an inquiry following multiple complaints regarding the DEA's handling of cannabis research applications, particularly those submitted by MMJ International Holdings. The company, which is pushing to conduct research into cannabis-based treatments for Multiple Sclerosis(MS) and Huntington's Disease (HD), has faced inexplicable delays.
Allegations of Impropriety
At the heart of the investigation are accusations that Thomas Prevoznik DEA Deputy administrator and Matthew Strait DEA Policy administrator, have engaged in practices that deliberately stall the approval process for MMJ's research applications. These allegations suggest a pattern of behavior that includes a vast array of misconduct.
DEA Unjustified Delays Since 2018
Duane Boise, the company's CEO stated "MMJ 's application to cultivate pharmaceutical-grade marijuana, critical for their clinical trials, has been slow walked by the DEA multiple times without valid reasons, directly implicating Thomas Prevoznik and Matthew Strait".
DEA Manipulative Practices
The officials are accused of using their positions to manipulate legal and administrative proceedings, allegedly applying regulatory standards inconsistently and misinterpreting requirements to disadvantage MMJ.
Broader Implications for DEA Operations
This probe is not just about individual misconduct, but points to potential systemic issues within the DEA's Diversion Control Division. Critics argue that there exists a cultural resistance within the DEA against cannabis research, which conflicts with changing laws and societal attitudes towards the cannabis plant. The investigation into DEA's Thomas Prevoznik and DEA's Matthew Strait also underscores concerns about the DEA's dual role in policing illegal drug-use and regulating pharmaceutical research, which may create conflicts of interest.
Calls for Transparency and Reform
In light of these serious allegations, there are growing calls for comprehensive reforms within the DEA. Advocates are pushing for measures that would increase transparency and accountability within the agency including:
Restructuring the DEA Diversion Control Division to ensure a clearer separation between its enforcement and regulatory functions
Enhanced Oversight- implementing more rigorous oversight mechanisms to prevent abuses of power and ensure that regulatory actions are fair and based on sound legal standards.
Potential Outcomes and Impact
If the Inspector General's investigation substantiates the claims of misconduct, it could lead to significant changes within the DEA. Recommendations might range from administrative sanctions to criminal prosecution of the involved officials. Moreover, the findings could influence ongoing legal battles, including MMJ's lawsuit against the DEA, potentially weakening the DEA's stance and empowering other entities facing similar regulatory challenges.
What is Next?
The outcome of this investigation could have far-reaching consequences for the future of cannabis research and the pharmaceutical industry in the United States. By addressing these allegations of corruption and obstruction, the DEA has an opportunity to restore trust and align its practices with the evolving legal and cultural landscape surrounding cannabis.
As the potential probe progresses, stakeholders in the pharmaceutical and legal sectors, as well as advocates for cannabis reform, are closely watching, recognizing the potential for this case to reshape the DEA regulatory framework governing controlled substances in the U.S.
MMJ is represented by attorney Megan Sheehan
CONTACT:
Madison Hisey
MHisey@mmjih.com
203-231-8583
SOURCE: MMJ International Holdings
Related Documents:
- DOJ LETTER (3)
- Image 4-5-25 at 5.01?PM
View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire
