Miami Dade Sheriff’s Office Deputy Francisco Melo Arrested for Allegedly Smuggling Ecstasy on Groove Cruise
Drug busts at cruise ship festivals are not uncommon, but it’s rare for law enforcement to be on the wrong side of the law. Deputy Francisco Melo from the Miami Dade Sheriff’s Office (MDSO) finds himself in this unusual situation after being detained on drug trafficking charges while attempting to board the Groove Cruise.
Detectives reported that Melo was carrying 60 ecstasy pills at the Royal Caribbean Cruise Terminal as the Allure of the Seas was set for departure on the morning of Thursday, January 23. The pills were discovered hidden in Skittles packets within his luggage, thanks to the assistance of drug-sniffing dogs.
Authorities had previously arranged for a confidential informant to purchase 12 ecstasy pills from Melo in December, as part of an undercover operation, which led to the revelation of his plans to board Groove Cruise, according to CBS News.
“As sheriff, it’s my responsibility to ensure that our community can trust our deputies to protect them and enforce the law,” stated MDSO Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz. “I am disappointed to report that one of my deputies has been arrested for trafficking a controlled substance.”
On Friday, January 24, Melo, who has been suspended from duty, was released on bond shortly after being booked. According to 7News Miami, he hurriedly left the facility while they tried to question him regarding the incident.
After departing, the 2025 sailing of Groove Cruise made a stop in Labadee, Haiti, before returning on Sunday, January 26. Cabins for the 2026 edition are now available for booking.
