Drug Trafficking Activity Reported in Florida Keys Waters

Fishermen in the Florida Keys have reported finding tightly wrapped bricks of illegal marijuana or cocaine, sometimes referred to as a 'square grouper.' The Justice Department stated that John Robert Strama Jr, Pedro Luis Lugo Jr, and Elvis Lazaro Ruiz were federally charged with distributing cocaine from 2020 to 2023. Bradford Picariello, a charter boat captain, was also arrested for trafficking cocaine.

The discovery and distribution of these illegal substances indicate ongoing large-scale criminal operations in the region. These activities involve significant legal risks for residents who profit from the trade.