Florida Deputy Arrested for Alleged Drug Trafficking Scheme
Deputy Francisco Melo, formerly with the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office, was arrested last week on charges of drug trafficking. Authorities allege that Melo planned to smuggle MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy or "molly," onto a Royal Caribbean cruise ship and sell the pills packaged in Skittles packets.
According to reports, police used a confidential informant to go undercover and purchase drugs from Melo. The informant also learned of Melo's plan to bring drugs onto the cruise ship, which was scheduled to host an electronic dance festival.
Detectives intercepted Melo as he prepared to board the ship and searched his bag, finding 60 MDMA pills. These pills reportedly matched the ones the informant had purchased earlier.
Miami-Dade Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz, who has been with the department for three years, released a statement expressing her disappointment and anger over Melo's alleged actions.
"Narcotics don't just harm those who use them, they devastate families and fuel crime," Cordero-Stutz said. "The actions of this individual are a betrayal of the public trust and of all the deputies who work tirelessly to protect our community."
Local reporters attempted to speak with Melo as he left jail, but he reportedly ran from them as they confronted him about the accusations.
10 Comments
Marishka
I'm glad that this corrupt officer is off the streets and facing the consequences of his actions.
Pupsik
Selling MDMA as Skittles? This cop is not only a criminal but also a danger to innocent people.
Marishka
Let's not let this incident overshadow the good work that 99% of police officers do.
Pupsik
One bad cop doesn't define the entire force. Let's not forget the sacrifices and dedication of the many honest officers.
Marishka
Sheriff Cordero-Stutz is taking the right steps to address this issue and restore public trust.
Habibi
While Deputy Melo's alleged actions are inexcusable, let's not judge the entire Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office based on one bad apple.
ZmeeLove
This is a tragedy for everyone involved. The victims, the families, and the community as a whole.
Muchacho
I hope this serves as a wake-up call for the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office. They need to do better.
ZmeeLove
This incident shows that even law enforcement officers can be held accountable for their crimes.
ArtemK
This is why people have no respect for the police. Another corrupt officer putting lives at risk.