Hutchinson said club drugs are harder to intercept than other illegal drugs because they come in pill form and are easier to conceal.

Another of Hutchinson's priorities is to emphasize the need for drug education and rehabilitation, especially for nonviolent offenders. "You're not going to arrest your way out of this problem," he said. "The risk itself is not enough."

Hutchinson, who started his DEA position this month, is familiar with the drug issue: Despite numerous times in rehabilitation, his addicted nephew committed suicide at age 16. "It's extraordinary the battles people face when it comes to substance abuse and addiction," Hutchinson said.

Hutchinson said seeing the "human side" of drug trafficking and addiction is important in his role as DEA director. He added that it's equally important for "the public to understand that you see the human side of it."

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