Florida Authorities Dismantle Driver’s License Fraud Network Involving DMV Employees, Illegal Immigrants

A joint investigation led by the Bay County Sheriff's Office and Homeland Security Investigations uncovered a fraudulent scheme in Florida involving two DMV employees and a network of intermediaries who issued driver's licenses to individuals, many of whom were undocumented immigrants, without meeting legal requirements such as written and practical tests. The scheme, facilitated through CubaMax, a local company, involved illegal payments distributed to public officials, and applicants traveled from across Florida to obtain these licenses. Authorities arrested eight individuals, including the two DMV employees, Bancelie Velazco and Demetrius Smith II, as well as Niurbis Rosales, the owner of CubaMax, and seized $120,000 in illicit proceeds. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier emphasized the state's strict stance on illegal immigration and vowed to hold offenders accountable, while Bay County Sheriff Tommy Ford praised the collaboration of agencies involved. The investigation remains active, with officials indicating further arrests and charges may follow. This operation highlights ongoing concerns about illegal immigration and public safety risks posed by unqualified drivers on Florida roads.