Episode 95 former DEA Intelligence Analyst Christopher Macolini

Interview with former DEA Intelligence Analyst Christopher Macolini

Years of Service: 1987-2002

In the world of law enforcement, there are many careers other than police officers, sheriff deputies, and Special Agents that play a crucial role during investigations leading to the arrest and prosecution of criminals. One of those careers is as an intelligence analyst, where information is gathered and put together in conjunction with on-ground street enforcement.

These analysts are on the front lines and often participate in interviews of suspects as well as gathering evidence during search warrants.

Chris’ father was the first DEA Special Agent to be stationed in Mexico and Chris decided he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps. Because of a medical issue, Chris was unable to pursue his goal of becoming a DEA Special Agent and instead became an Intelligence Analyst.

During this interview, Chris talks about his career and some of the unconventional things he did as an Intelligence Analyst. Chris was stationed in some domestic offices but also was stationed in Buenos Aires, La Paz Bolivia, and was temporarily stationed in Latin America and was present for search warrants at Manuel Noriega’s residence.

Chris currently runs his own company called MIC Worldwide, focusing on counterfeit investigations and is the author of “Counterfeits, War Stories and Lessons Learned”.

Chris is a business coach and his first non-fiction novel was just published called “The Hunter” based on real people in his life.

Chapters
00:00 A Close Call at the My Place Bar
01:06 Introducing Chris McElhinney
01:51 Chris's Background and Family
02:47 Following in His Father's Footsteps
04:22 Early Career and Joining the DEA
12:02 Challenges and Support from His Father
14:21 Becoming an Intelligence Analyst
23:28 Training and Early Assignments
27:36 Working at the El Paso Intelligence Center
31:34 Operation Snowcap: On the Ground in Peru
42:11 The Invasion of Panama
47:49 Life in Buenos Aires
48:25 A New Dynamic in Argentina
50:22 Sharing Knowledge and Experiences
50:36 Field Work and Coordination in Argentina
52:06 Legal System and Judicial Interactions in Argentina
53:58 Life at the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires
55:32 Inter-Agency Dynamics and Rivalries
57:20 Transition to Miami: New Challenges
58:51 Supervisory Role and Responsibilities in Miami
01:01:27 Moving to Bolivia: Personal and Professional Challenges
01:04:20 End of DEA Career and Family Considerations
01:08:07 Joining Microsoft: New Beginnings
01:19:04 Starting a Business: From DEA to Entrepreneurship
01:24:18 Writing and Publishing: Sharing Stories and Lessons
01:35:49 Advice and Reflections on a Career in Intelligence