Sergio Velázquez, who led the Hialeah Police Department for nearly ten years, was taken into custody on Monday following an extensive investigation by the Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). The local media reported that authorities have filed several charges against him, including money laundering, organized fraud, and first-degree grand theft.
Missing Funds and Suspicious Transactions
The investigation gained momentum when the current Police Chief, George Fuente, identified major discrepancies in the handling of funds seized during anti-drug operations. Shortly after assuming his role in 2021, Fuente provided the FDLE with evidence, triggering a formal inquiry.
Prosecutors disclosed that:
- In a cocaine-related operation, Hialeah police seized approximately $300,000, but over $90,000 went unaccounted for.
- A broader review revealed at least $630,000 was missing or improperly recorded.
- Some of the seized money was stored in a safe in Velázquez's personal office, and there is evidence that he deposited thousands into personal accounts.
A History of Suspicion
Velázquez took on the role of police chief in 2012 and resigned in December 2021, shortly after a Noticias 23 investigative report uncovered potential conflicts of interest. The report highlighted that Velázquez had recommended his personal friend, José Galguera, for public contracts without declaring their relationship. Galguera secured contracts exceeding a million dollars with the department Velázquez led.
Although these contracts are not confirmed to be directly linked to the current arrest, they contribute to the backdrop surrounding the former chief. At the time, then-Mayor of Hialeah, Esteban Bovo, described the situation as "a mess" in comments to Noticias 23, upon learning about Velázquez's possible involvement in opaque practices.
Serious Charges and a $30,000 Bail
According to court documents, the 61-year-old Velázquez is facing charges of:
- Money laundering.
- Evading registration reports for $100,000.
- Organized fraud for more than $50,000.
- First-degree grand theft exceeding $100,000.
Velázquez was booked on June 2 at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center (TGK). During his appearance before the Miami-Dade criminal court, Judge Mindy S. Glazer set his bail at $30,000, which was expected to be posted by Tuesday, potentially allowing his release on bail.
Official Government Reaction
Interim Hialeah Mayor, Jacqueline García-Roves, issued a statement expressing deep regret over the incident: "The City of Hialeah has been informed of the arrest of former Police Department Director Sergio Velázquez, resulting from an investigation initiated under a previous administration. This is undoubtedly a very sad chapter for our city, and a situation we deeply regret."
Additionally, she reiterated her confidence in the current police chief, George Fuente: "Today, as mayor of the second safest city in the state of Florida, I want to reaffirm our total confidence in the leadership and integrity of Hialeah's current Police Department director, who continues to work tirelessly to ensure the safety and peace of mind of all our residents."
State Attorney Katherine Fernández Rundle confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing and could lead to further arrests if other officers or officials are found complicit in the fraudulent scheme. The scope of the case, the amount of money allegedly diverted, and Velázquez's position of authority have shocked the Hialeah community and the public in South Florida.
Key Questions About the Arrest of Sergio Velázquez
What charges is Sergio Velázquez facing?
Sergio Velázquez is facing charges of money laundering, evading registration reports for $100,000, organized fraud for more than $50,000, and first-degree grand theft exceeding $100,000.
Why did the investigation into Velázquez begin?
The investigation began when current Police Chief George Fuente detected significant anomalies in the handling of funds seized during anti-drug operations and presented evidence to the FDLE.
What was Velázquez's role in Hialeah?
Sergio Velázquez served as the chief of the Hialeah Police Department from 2012 until his resignation in December 2021.
How has the local government responded to the arrest?
Interim Mayor Jacqueline García-Roves expressed deep regret over the situation, reaffirming confidence in the current police chief and noting the ongoing investigation.