On June 18, 2026, the William J. Perry Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies hosted the webinar “Cybercrime and Cyber-Enabled Drug Trafficking in Latin America,” featuring Lt. Col. Diego Rodriguez of the Colombian National Police and moderated by Perry Center Professor Boris Saavedra. The event examined the evolving nature of cybercrime and its growing role in facilitating transnational organized crime throughout the Western Hemisphere.

Lt. Col. Rodriguez explored the evolution of cybercrime by distinguishing between cyber-dependent and cyber-enabled offenses and examining how criminal organizations increasingly exploit digital technologies to support illicit drug trafficking. The presentation analyzed the communication methods used by criminal networks, including encrypted platforms and other digital tools designed to conceal illicit activities, while highlighting the operational challenges these technologies present for law enforcement and security institutions.

The discussion also emphasized the critical role of digital evidence in modern criminal investigations. Participants examined the collection, preservation, and analysis of electronic evidence, gaining valuable insights into its importance for identifying criminal actors, disrupting illicit networks, and supporting successful prosecutions, as well as the technological, investigative, and policy challenges associated with combating cyber-enabled transnational organized crime in Latin America.

The event attracted 239 participants from the Perry Center alumni community, reflecting sustained interest in cybersecurity and its intersection with transnational organized crime. As part of the Perry Center’s Webinar Series, the Center strengthened its community of interest by promoting knowledge sharing and dialogue on emerging hemispheric security challenges while supporting US strategic priorities in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.

The Perry Center extends its sincere appreciation to Lt. Col. Diego Rodriguez for sharing his expertise and to Professor Boris Saavedra for moderating the discussion. The Center also recognizes the invaluable support of Chief Technology Officer Raul Neine and Alumni Affairs Coordinator Georgina Crovetto, whose efforts were essential to the successful planning, outreach, and execution of the event. The Webinar Series is a benefit offered to the Perry Center alumni community, providing ongoing opportunities for professional development and engagement with emerging hemispheric security challenges.