Former Hialeah Police Chief Faces Major Corruption Charges

Former Hialeah Police Chief Sergio Velazquez has been arrested and charged with organized fraud, grand theft, money laundering, and structuring financial transactions after authorities alleged he stole up to $2.8 million in police department funds between 2012 and 2021. Investigators say Velazquez funneled money intended for undercover operations and civil forfeitures into personal accounts, making over 900 cash deposits under $10,000 to evade federal reporting. In just six months of 2021, $560,000 reportedly went missing, with the total sum over several years reaching into the millions. The arrest followed a tip from the current police chief, and prosecutors warn that additional charges and arrests may follow as the investigation is ongoing. Velazquez has pleaded not guilty and was released on a $30,000 bond. City officials have expressed shock and reaffirmed their commitment to transparency and integrity.