Florida Keys Charter Boat Captain Arrested for Drug Trafficking: Cocaine Seized at Sea
A Florida Keys charter boat captain, Bradford Todd Picariello, was arrested on drug-related charges after allegedly selling cocaine found at sea. The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, along with other law enforcement agencies, conducted an investigation that led to Picariello’s arrest. He is accused of selling a kilogram of cocaine to an undercover federal agent for $10,000.
Following Picariello’s arrest, authorities seized approximately 23 kilograms of cocaine, $8,000 in cash, and his 38-foot boat. The drug deal took place at the marina where Picariello operates his business, Outlaw Fishing Charters of Marathon. He allegedly offered to sell more cocaine to the agent during the transaction.
Picariello informed law enforcement that he had additional drugs stored in a storage unit in Marathon. Police obtained permission to search the unit and found wrapped kilograms of cocaine marked with a “332” stamp. Sheriff Rick Ramsay commended the efforts of law enforcement in preventing dangerous drugs from entering the community.
Picariello is currently held without bond and is scheduled to appear in court for an arraignment on Feb. 4. The case highlights the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in combating drug trafficking in the region.