The former City of Miami Police Officer Frenel Cenat has been sentenced to 135 months in prison, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release, for his role in cocaine trafficking and attempted Hobbs Act extortion.
In a shocking case of police corruption, Frenel Cenat, 41, had been using his official position and authority to conduct two illegal traffic stops to steal what he believed were drug proceeds and seven kilograms of cocaine from the drivers.
The crimes took place in Miami, Florida, and involved the use of his unmarked MPD-issued vehicle and equipment. Cenat, who had been a police officer with the MPD since 2008, was prohibited from engaging in any act of extortion or unlawful means of obtaining anything of value using his official position.
U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe praised the efforts of the FBI, DEA, and MPD in bringing Cenat to justice, stating that the vast majority of law enforcement officers perform their jobs with respect for their communities and in compliance with the law.
Jeffrey B. Veltri, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Miami, also commended the investigative efforts, saying that Cenat’s actions disgraced himself and damaged the public’s trust in law enforcement. Veltri emphasized that the FBI is committed to rooting out wrongdoing and ensuring high standards are met in law enforcement.
The MPD Chief Manny Morales noted that the reputation of the Miami Police Department is paramount, and the community must trust their ability to police themselves. Morales thanked the FBI, DEA, and U.S. Attorney’s Office for their assistance in bringing Cenat to justice.
Cenat’s crimes were uncovered through a confidential human source who had been told by a mutual friend that Cenat had previously conducted traffic stops in a similar manner. The DEA, FBI, and MPD worked together to investigate the allegations and bring Cenat to justice.
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Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Public Corruption
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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