A sophisticated anti-drug operation in Miami's Flagami neighborhood wrapped up this week with the arrest of two men and a woman tied to a synthetic drug distribution network. Officials reported seizing over a kilogram of methamphetamine, about 400 grams of cocaine, $26,031 in cash, and two vehicles. These items are considered crucial evidence to substantiate the charges filed in court.
The nationalities of the suspects remain undisclosed, though two are reportedly in the U.S. illegally and have final deportation orders, as per local media citing police sources. The individuals arrested are:
Carlos Alberto Sexto, aged 52, an undocumented immigrant, faces charges of trafficking over 200 grams of methamphetamine, distributing cocaine and methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a school, and child abuse.
Jorge Bárbaro Vento Soler, aged 55, another undocumented immigrant, is charged with multiple offenses, including trafficking over 200 grams of cocaine, trafficking over 14 grams of amphetamine, delivering drugs near a school, and distributing controlled substances.
Dayana Luis Gutiérrez, aged 33, a legal permanent resident, is accused of trafficking over 200 grams of methamphetamine and delivering cocaine and methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a school, alongside child abuse charges.
On Monday, June 10, local, state, and federal agents conducted a raid at a residence on 262 Northwest 44th Avenue in Flagami, a working-class residential area between Coral Way and Calle Ocho. The operation, captured by NBC6 cameras and broadcasted by Telemundo 51, involved armed agents and tactical units.
Coordinated Efforts to Halt Synthetic Drug Trafficking
The investigation leading to these arrests began in July 2023 under the Statewide Assistance for the Eradication of Fentanyl (S.A.F.E.) Task Force, a state initiative aimed at tackling synthetic drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl, which has had devastating impacts on American public health in recent years.
The S.A.F.E. Task Force includes the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and various South Florida agencies, such as the Miami Police Department, Sweetwater Police Department, Doral Police Department, Hialeah Police Department, Medley Police Department, and Florida International University (FIU) Police Department. Federal agencies, including the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office, and Miami Beach Police Department, also participated.
The investigation focused not only on intercepting illegal substances but also on safeguarding school communities, as some criminal activities occurred near educational institutions, intensifying the legal severity of the offenses.
The three suspects have been transferred to the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center (THK) in West Miami. Authorities confirmed that Sexto and Soler have final deportation orders, indicating prior immigration proceedings before their arrest.
This Friday, the detainees appeared in bond court for their initial hearing.
FAQ on Miami Drug Operation
What was seized during the Miami drug operation?
Authorities seized over a kilogram of methamphetamine, approximately 400 grams of cocaine, $26,031 in cash, and two vehicles during the operation.
Who were the individuals arrested in the Flagami drug bust?
The individuals arrested were Carlos Alberto Sexto, Jorge Bárbaro Vento Soler, and Dayana Luis Gutiérrez, each facing multiple drug-related charges.
What is the S.A.F.E. Task Force?
The S.A.F.E. Task Force is a state initiative focused on combating synthetic drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl, involving various local, state, and federal agencies.