TAMPA, FL – Federal prosecutors have announced the arrest of 12 individuals connected to a sprawling multistate drug operation with significant ties to Polk County. The suspects, linked to a variety of crimes including drug trafficking, money laundering, and murder, have been indicted by a federal grand jury.
Authorities believe this extensive investigation, which culminated in a 35-page indictment, has dealt a significant blow to a dangerous criminal network. The alleged drug trafficking organization is accused of amassing over $6 million through fraudulent means, including COVID-19 relief fraud.
The indictment names individuals from Florida, Puerto Rico, and South Carolina, highlighting the far-reaching nature of the network. Among those arrested are Madeline Sanchez, Rebel Carbonell, and Sontel Riviera, who are believed to have participated in violent crimes on behalf of the organization.
Carlos Slim, identified as the leader of the operation, presented himself as a legitimate businessman while allegedly orchestrating the network’s illegal activities. Investigators uncovered evidence of the group’s involvement in drug trafficking and fraudulent PPP loans over a five-year period. Some of the illicit funds were reportedly used for personal expenditures, including the purchase of a residence in Polk County and mortgage payments on a property in Osceola County.
Several suspects are currently detained in Pinellas County Jail, while others were apprehended in the Carolinas and Puerto Rico. If convicted, all face the possibility of life imprisonment.