Fort Bend County Sheriff Eric Fagan has secured the position of Chair on the Executive Board of the Houston High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA), as elected by his peers. Since assuming office in 2021, Sheriff Fagan has been an active member of the Houston HIDTA Executive Board, having previously been unanimously chosen as Vice Chair last year. On November 16, 2023, Sheriff Fagan was once again unanimously elected, this time to the prestigious role of Chair. His tenure in this position will extend for one year, concluding in November 2024.

Established by Congress in 1988 through the Anti-Drug Abuse Act, the HIDTA Program functions to "coordinate and assist federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies (LEAs) in addressing regional drug threats with the aim of reducing drug trafficking and production in the United States." The program's overarching objectives include disrupting the illegal drug market by dismantling and disrupting drug trafficking and money laundering organizations, while concurrently enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of HIDTA initiatives. Currently, there are 33 regional HIDTAs spread across the United States, including the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico.

"Sheriff Fagan has been an active member of the Houston HIDTA Executive Board for the past three years, bringing valuable input to the board, especially in light of his many years of law enforcement experience to draw upon," says Houston HIDTA Director, Mike McDaniel. "Our communities are facing unprecedented challenges brought to them by the regional and national overdose epidemic. The Houston HIDTA is looking forward to the experience and leadership that Sheriff Fagan will bring to this fight.”

"I take great pride in serving on the Houston HIDTA Executive Board, recognizing the significant benefits and resources it provides to Fort Bend County," says Sheriff Fagan. "Our unwavering commitment ensures we will persist in the crucial fight against drug trafficking and drug overdoses, striving for a safer and healthier community."