Federal agents are seen inside Doctor’s Choice Pharmacy, a tenant located within Plaza Extra East, during a DEA enforcement action conducted Thursday on St. Croix. Photo Credit: ERNICE GILBERT, V.I. CONSORTIUM.
ST. CROIX — Federal agents with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration conducted a prolonged enforcement action Thursday at Doctor’s Choice Pharmacy, which operates inside Plaza Extra East, focusing exclusively on the pharmacy, the Consortium can confirm.
The DEA activity began in the morning, around 9 a.m., when Plaza personnel confirmed that federal agents had arrived at Doctor’s Choice Pharmacy. Plaza Extra East said agents made clear early on that the operation did not involve the supermarket and noted that this was the first time such an action had been taken at the pharmacy location within the store.
According to witnesses, approximately 10 DEA agents were involved in the operation. Several agents remained in front of the pharmacy area, while three to four individuals were positioned behind the counter.
The agents’ activity centered on the pharmacy’s computer systems. Witnesses on site said the DEA examined and collected data from the computers. Plaza Extra East confirmed that no access was requested to the supermarket’s systems or operations.
At one point during the day, the agents left the location and later returned to continue their activity. The DEA presence remained at Plaza Extra East through at least 5:30 p.m.
In a statement provided to the media, Caribbean Division Special Agent in Charge Michael Miranda confirmed the agency’s presence and explained the broader scope of the DEA’s regulatory responsibilities.
“The DEA was on the premises of Doctors Choice Pharmacy in Christiansted, St Croix, VI today,” Miranda said.
He noted that the agency’s role extends beyond narcotics enforcement. “DEA not only investigates illegal drugs, but it’s also in charge of regulating those who handle pharmaceutical controlled substances, such as pharmacies, doctors, distributers and manufacturers,” he said.
Miranda said compliance and public safety are central to the agency’s mission in the region. “The DEA Caribbean Division cares about the communities in its area of responsibility and is prioritizing efforts to ensure that pharmacies (among others) are in compliance with federal laws and regulations, in order to ensure the safety of its community,” he said.
“We appreciate the interest in our work and efforts,” Miranda added. “As this is an ongoing investigation, at this moment we are not able to share additional information.”
He further stated that enforcement remains a continuing priority. “The DEA will continue to pursue every appropriate avenue—regulatory, administrative, and criminal when necessary to ensure compliance with the law and to uphold the highest standards of public safety.”
Addressing the public directly, Miranda said, “To the community, we say this: your safety comes first. Through initiatives like Fentanyl Free America, education, and strong partnerships, we remain focused on stopping dangerous drugs at every level and building healthier, safer communities.”
No information was provided on the specific nature of the investigation beyond the collection of data, and no arrests or charges were reported during the course of the day.
The enforcement action remained focused solely on Doctor’s Choice Pharmacy throughout the duration of the DEA’s presence.
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