The source of supply varies regionally with some types of heroin predominating in select areas. In some cities the source of heroin may actually vary year to year. South American heroin is readily available at the wholesale and retail levels in the Northeast and South Regions. South American heroin is also available in several cities in the North Central Region, primarily Chicago and Detroit. South American heroin in the West Region is mostly destined for eastern markets, according to DEA and local law enforcement reporting.
Mexican heroin is readily available at the wholesale and retail levels in the West Region.
Additionally, Mexican heroin is available in certain cities in the North Central Region and in limited amounts in niche markets in the South Region. Southeast Asian heroin is readily available at the street level in the North Central Region and is available in a number of cities in the Northeast and South Regions. Much of the Southeast Asian heroin available in the West Region is destined for distribution in the Northeast and South Regions. Southwest Asian heroin is available at the street level principally in the cities of Chicago, Atlanta, and Detroit. Southwest Asian heroin is available only in limited quantities in other parts of the country.