Special Agents Barbie and Ken

These Barbie and Ken dolls were presented to DEA after an executive from Mattel Toys attended a Citizens Academy at DEA’s Los Angeles Division Office. The Los Angeles office developed their citizens academy in 2008. The program includes trips to DEA lab facilities as well as ranges where agents train. Participants are encouraged to partake in simulated raids and get an idea of the split-second decisions DEA special agents face in the field. These courses provide a strong knowledge of how the DEA does its job and how graduates can help the agency make a difference.

The executive worked with a DEA Public Information Officer at the Los Angeles office to ensure the designs were accurate. Both Barbie and Ken are wearing DEA IDs and earpieces similar to those agents wear while working a case. Special Agent Barbie includes multiple evidence bags of illicit drugs and cash from working a case and Ken is equipped with gear used to raid a criminal hideout.

Click here to view this artifact’s episode of “Stories from the Collection,” a monthly video series on the DEA Museum’s most exciting objects.