The federal HIDTA designation works to stop drug trafficking in the Beltrami County region

The White House National Drug Control Policy has designated Beltrami County in northwestern Minnesota as a high drug trafficking intensity area. It joins seven other counties in the state under the federal program. The designation brings additional attention and resources to the area for enforcement, treatment and diversion.

Capt. Joe Kleszyk of the Beltrami County Sheriff's Office said the designation will increase much-needed funding in the area.

“It really shows everyone that we have a problem here,” he said. “And right now, the White House itself has said that Beltrami County has a problem. You need resources. And perhaps this name alone will help shed some light on the matter.”

Kleszyk said future enforcement efforts will focus on stopping drug trafficking.

“This is not about addicted people,” he said. “This money and the drug agents in this area are targeting those who come to our area to exploit and poison our community.”

Congress created the HIDTA program with the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988.