Elmer Román Unveils Strategic Security Plan Focused on Combating Drug Trafficking in Puerto Rico

Elmer Román, the New Progressive Party (PNP) candidate for Resident Commissioner of Puerto Rico, has presented his strategic security plan for the island, with a primary focus on addressing the drug trade and drug trafficking. Román emphasized the need to strengthen security measures at coasts, ports, and airports, as well as improve interagency cooperation between municipal, state, and federal entities in the fight against drug trafficking.

Puerto Rico's geographic location and relationship with the United States have made it a major hub for the drug market supplying cities along the East Coast, with an estimated 80% of drugs entering the island eventually ending up in these areas. This has contributed to a rise in drug-related violence and other crimes such as robbery, murders, and arms trafficking on the island.

Why this matters: The drug trade's impact on Puerto Rico extends beyond the immediate violence and crime, affecting the island's socioeconomic situation and public safety. Tackling this issue is vital for improving the well-being of Puerto Ricans and stemming the flow of drugs to the U.S. mainland.

As part of his plan, Román intends to work in a bipartisan manner in Congress to strengthen the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area program. He also plans to collaborate with federal public security agencies in Puerto Rico, including the Coast Guard, DEA, Customs and Border Patrol, and the FBI. Román will push for initiatives such as the Caribbean Border Counternarcotics Strategy Act, The Maritime Border Security Technology Improvement Act, and the Coast Guard Reauthorization Act of 2024.

In addition to security measures, Román's plan addresses the socioeconomic situation in Puerto Rico, the unequal treatment the island receives in federal programs, and the lack of access to high-quality public education and social support programs. He proposes continuing to work on various grants offered by the U.S. Department of Justice to support law enforcement and public safety activities.

Román also seeks a seat on the House National Security Committee to play a leading role in addressing public safety issues in Puerto Rico. "Puerto Rico's geographic location and relationship with the United States have made it a hub for the drug market that supplies cities on the East Coast of the United States, with an estimated 80% of drugs entering the island eventually ending up on the East Coast," Román stated, highlighting the urgency of the situation.

Key Takeaways

• Elmer Román, PNP candidate, presents security plan to address drug trade in Puerto Rico.
• Puerto Rico is a major hub for drug trafficking to the U.S. East Coast, fueling violence.
• Román plans to strengthen security measures, improve interagency cooperation, and seek federal support.
• Román's plan also addresses socioeconomic issues and unequal federal treatment of Puerto Rico.
• Román seeks a seat on the House National Security Committee to address public safety in PR.