Indicted Miami Police Sgt. Makes First Court Appearance
MIAMI (CBSMiami) - A Miami police sergeant indicted on charges alleging he planted cocaine on a suspect, stole drugs and money from dealers, and lied to federal investigators appeared before a federal judge Friday.
Raul Iglesias, 40, arrived at the federal courthouse in Miami inside an SUV in the custody of the FBI.
He's facing charges including conspiracy to commit a violation of civil rights, civil rights violations, conspiracy to possess and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine, obstruction of justice and making false official statements.
The State Attorney's Office claims Iglesias used his position as a supervisor of the anti-narcotics unit to steal drugs and money, obstruct justice, make false statements to investigators and facilitate the planting of cocaine on a suspect.
Miami Police say Iglesias was relieved of duty in May of 2010 after 16 years on the force.
If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison.
Late Thursday, the Miami Police Department released this statement about the indictment:
"Anytime a member of law enforcement stands accused of running afoul of the law that he or she has sworn to uphold, it is both disappointing and disheartening. The situation involving Sergeant Raul Iglesias is no exception. This profession is filled with dedicated, honest, and hard-working men and women, who day in and day out, commit themselves to protecting and serving with integrity, and it is important to convey that this 2010 case is in no way a reflection of the rest of the law enforcement community. The Miami Police Department has worked hand-in-hand with the FBI and the United States Attorney's Office since the beginning of this investigation that dates back to 2010. Let me make it clear, we take these allegations seriously. At the same time, we recognize that these are only accusations currently, and that all are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt."
