Mon Sep 09 15:46:57 UTC 2024: ## Powerboat Team Owner Among 27 Arrested in South Florida Drug Trafficking Bust

**Marathon, FL** – A major drug trafficking ring involving 27 individuals, including a powerboat team owner, was dismantled in a coordinated effort by the FBI and local law enforcement in southern Florida. The arrests, which took place on September 5th, followed an extensive investigation that began in 2020 and included wiretaps and surveillance.

John Robert Strama Jr., owner of the JS Racing S-7 powerboat racing team based in Marathon, Florida Keys, is among those facing charges. Strama Jr., a convicted felon, is charged with cocaine distribution and firearms offenses, which could land him in prison for life if convicted.

The investigation revealed a widespread network of individuals involved in the drug trafficking operation, including employees of the Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority, commercial charter boat operators, and a former city of Marathon employee.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office Southern District of Florida, all arrested individuals are facing charges of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, with some also facing charges of distributing drugs within 1,000 feet of a playground. These charges carry a minimum sentence of 20 years in prison.

The FBI Miami Field Office led the investigation, working in conjunction with the Homestead Police Department, Miami-Dade Police Department, FBI Detroit Field Office, and U.S. Probation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean T. McLaughlin, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Annika Maranda overseeing the seizure of assets subject to criminal forfeiture.

The arrest of the powerboat team owner and other individuals highlights the wide-ranging nature of the drug trafficking operation and the commitment of law enforcement to dismantle such networks.

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