A Florida corrections officer faces felony drug charges that carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 25 years in prison after police allegedly discovered large amounts of drugs and drug paraphernalia in her home. The 33-year-old woman and her 35-year-old boyfriend were taken into custody when officers from the Hollywood Police Department executed a search warrant on March 7. Broward County court records reveal that she is being detained on a $100,000 bond.
According to a HPD report, the couple’s alleged criminal activities came to light during an undercover narcotics operation. Police say that the pair trafficked fentanyl mixed with heroin less than 1,000 feet from an elementary school. During the search of the couple’s residence, officers claim to have discovered approximately 65.6 grams of fentanyl, unspecified quantities of cocaine and heroin, a firearm, ammunition for the firearm, a credit card skimming device, and an undisclosed amount of cash.
A Miami-Dade Corrections and Rehabilitation Department representative said that the woman had been relieved of duty pending the outcome of the investigation. The man and woman have both been charged with fentanyl trafficking and possessing drug paraphernalia. The man also faces counts of cocaine possession and trafficking heroin less than 1,000 yards from a school.
The penalties for drug possession or trafficking are severe, which is why experienced criminal defense attorneys may advise individuals accused of violating narcotics laws to remain silent and ask to speak with a lawyer. Attorneys could seek to ensure that any cooperation is rewarded with reduced charges or penalties, and they may also petition to have evidence discovered during searches ruled inadmissible if police appear to have strayed beyond boundaries set by the Constitution or the scope of the search warrant.
Source: NBC Miami, Miami-Dade Corrections Officer Accused of Trafficking Fentanyl, Staff report, March 8, 2019