Sun Jan 11 00:30:00 UTC 2026: # Thomas V. Cash, Former DEA Special Agent in Charge of Miami, Dies at 85

The Story:

Thomas V. Cash, the former Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Miami Field Division during the height of the “Cocaine Cowboys” era, passed away unexpectedly on December 25, 2025, at the age of 85. Cash is survived by his wife, Hillary Avenali Cash, four children, and seven grandchildren. His career spanned decades, including service with Naval Intelligence, the U.S. Customs Service, and the DEA. He held key positions both domestically and abroad, including postings in Paris and Bonn. Most notably, he led the DEA’s Miami office during a turbulent period, overseeing investigations like the arrest and prosecution of General Manuel Noriega. After retiring from the DEA in 1995, Cash transitioned to the private sector as Executive Managing Director of Kroll Inc. and Chairman of Kroll Latin America.

Key Points:

  • Thomas V. Cash died on December 25, 2025, at age 85.
  • He served as Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Miami Field Division from 1988 during the height of the “Cocaine Cowboys” era.
  • He led investigations that resulted in the arrest and prosecution of General Manuel Noriega.
  • Prior to the DEA, he worked for Naval Intelligence and the U.S. Customs Service.
  • Following his DEA career, he worked for 15 years at Kroll Inc., overseeing operations in Latin America.
  • He served overseas with the DEA as Assistant Regional Director in Paris and Country Attaché in Bonn.

Key Takeaways:

  • Thomas V. Cash’s career reflects a dedicated commitment to law enforcement, particularly in combating drug trafficking.
  • His leadership of the DEA Miami office during a critical period significantly impacted the fight against drug cartels.
  • His transition to the private sector demonstrates the value of law enforcement expertise in corporate investigations.

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