FBI: Miami developer Sergio Pino hired crews to kill estranged wife
MIRAMAR - The Federal Bureau of Investigation is shedding light on their investigation into prominent developer Sergio Pino, who took his life during a raid at his Coral Gables home Tuesday.
"The investigation revealed he attempted to murder his estranged wife," said FBI agent Jeffrey Veltri during a news conference Wednesday at their headquarters in Miramar.
Pino was in the middle of a messy divorce from his wife of 32 years, Tatiana Pino.
Federal officials contend Pino tried to poison, shoot and stalk Tatiana and had hired two separate crews for a hit on her.
Pino had denied the allegations, but the FBI said Wednesday that their investigation revealed allegations including poisoning, vehicle ramming, attempted shooting and arson.
The first hit squad included Jerren Howard, Ednar Etienne and Michaele Dulfo.
Federal authorities announced another arrest related to another group of alleged hitmen, including Faulsto Villar and they said that it was for lots of money.
Officials said Pino offered to pay $150,000 upfront and another $150,000 after it was done.
Pino was found dead Tuesday morning at his Cocoplum home in an apparent suicide, according to authorities.
On Tuesday Pino's attorney said what happened wasn't necessary.
"Sergio Pino took his own life today. The level of law enforcement activity at his residence was unprecedented and unnecessary, especially since we had offered to surrender him should that have become necessary. Today's events mark a very tragic ending to an investigation that we were confident we could successfully defend. There were many rumors and allegations but what was lacking was evidence," said Sam Rabin in a statement.
The investigation into Pino's death will be conducted by the FBI, not the local police. It is unusual for the FBI to take the lead on a death investigation or suicide, but because federal agents had been building the case against Pino, they decided to take the lead into the cause of his death.
Last month, agents raided Pino's home on Isla Dorada Boulevard as part of an investigation into allegations.
