Miami-Dade Deputy Arrested for Trafficking MDMA, Authorities Say
MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – A Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office (MDSO) deputy has been arrested on charges of drug trafficking after an investigation revealed his involvement in the sale and smuggling of MDMA, authorities announced Friday.
Deputy Francisco Javier Melo, 36, a six-year veteran of the Sheriff’s Office, was taken into custody Thursday night at PortMiami as he prepared to board Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas for a music festival cruise. Investigators said Melo planned to smuggle MDMA pills onto the ship concealed inside Skittles candy bags.
Undercover Investigation
According to the arrest report, the investigation began in December when detectives used a confidential informant to purchase drugs from Melo. The informant reportedly bought 12 MDMA pills for $240.
The informant also revealed that Melo planned to attend the music festival cruise and smuggle additional MDMA aboard. Based on this information, detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Melo earlier this week.
Arrest at PortMiami
On Thursday evening, Melo was stopped at PortMiami after exiting his vehicle with his luggage. Authorities said he provided written consent for a search, during which detectives discovered 60 MDMA pills concealed within five Skittles bags.
Following his arrest, Melo declined to provide a statement, invoking his right to remain silent.
Charges and Response
Melo faces multiple charges, including possession, sale, and trafficking of a controlled substance. He has been relieved of duty and was being held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center as of Friday morning, with bond yet to be set.
“This arrest is the result of a collaborative effort between the MDSO, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Miami-Dade State Attorney Office’s Public Corruption Prosecution Unit,” an MDSO news release stated. “These agencies are committed to upholding the integrity and maintaining the public trust in law enforcement within Miami-Dade County.”
Sheriff Condemns Actions
Miami-Dade Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz condemned Melo’s actions in a statement, emphasizing the impact of narcotics on the community.
“Narcotics don’t just harm those who use them; they devastate families and fuel crime,” she said. “No one is above the law, and this office will not tolerate criminal behavior from anyone, especially those entrusted to enforce it. The actions of this individual are a betrayal of the public trust and of all the deputies who work tirelessly to protect our community.”
The Sheriff’s Office stated it will fully cooperate with the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office throughout the legal process.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts to combat corruption and maintain accountability within law enforcement agencies. Authorities have urged the public to report any suspicious activity to help ensure the safety and trust of the community.