Opa Locka Ex-Commissioner Luis Santiago Accused of Bribery, Extortion

Former City of Opa Locka Commissioner Luis Santiago has been hit with serious charges for allegedly orchestrating a two-year-long bribery and extortion scheme. Santiago, according to federal prosecutors, conspired with former city officials David Chiverton and Gregory Harris to solicit thousands in illegal cash payments from local businesses and individuals.

The corrupt scheme is said to have involved using Santiago’s official position to assist those who paid with favorable actions like issuing occupational licenses, waiving code enforcement matters, and resolving zoning issues. Santiago has been charged under Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371, 666(a)(1)(B), and 1951(a), carrying a potential sentence of up to five years in prison if convicted.

Wifredo A. Ferrer, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, and George L. Piro, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Miami Field Office, announced the charges against Santiago. The investigation leading to these charges was conducted by the FBI Miami Area Corruption Task Force.

Chiverton and Harris have already pleaded guilty to their roles in the scheme. Chiverton was sentenced to 38 months in prison, while Harris awaits sentencing. Santiago’s initial appearance was before United States Magistrate Judge Alicia Otazo-Reyes.

The case is assigned to United States District Judge Kathleen M. Williams (Case No. 16-20971-CR). Santiago could also face a fine of $250,000 and three years of supervised release if found guilty.

Mr. Ferrer commended the investigative efforts by the FBI Miami Area Corruption Task Force in bringing these allegations to light. The public is reminded that an Information is merely an allegation, and every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. For more information, visit www.flsd.uscourts.gov or http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.