MIAMI, FL – In a shocking turn of events, a Miami Dade Police Department detective has been charged with violating motorists’ civil rights. According to the indictment, 47-year-old Detective William Kostopoulos used his law enforcement authority to steal money and property from three drivers.
The indictment, returned by a grand jury in the Southern District of Florida, charges Kostopoulos with making misleading statements to prevent the communication of information about his alleged crimes to federal law enforcement officers.
The indictment alleges that Kostopoulos made traffic stops of the three motorists in order to steal their money and property, violating their Fourth Amendment rights to be free from unreasonable seizures of their property.
The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), with assistance from the Homestead, Florida, Police Department. The matter is being prosecuted by Special Litigation Counsel Gerard Hogan and Trial Attorney Samantha Trepel of the Civil Rights Division as well as Assistant U.S. Attorney Tonya Long of the Southern District of Florida.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Kostopoulos’ actions are a stark reminder of the importance of holding law enforcement accountable for their actions. The Miami community deserves to know that their officers are acting with integrity and respect for the law.
The indictment is just the beginning of the process. Kostopoulos will have the opportunity to defend himself against the allegations, and the community will have the chance to see justice served.
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Key Facts
- State: Florida
- Category: Public Corruption|Police Misconduct
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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