NewsNBC 6 South FloridaJuly 2, 2026Miami-Dade
Florida City man arrested after allegedly hiding drugs on teen passenger
A Florida City man was arrested in the Florida Keys after deputies say he attempted to hide cocaine on a teenage passenger during a traffic stop. The driver faces multiple felony and misdemeanor charges, and the teen was released to family care.
Read the full story at NBC 6 South FloridaWhy It Matters
This incident involves the arrest of a driver on charges of child abuse and drug distribution, resulting in the involvement of the Department of Children and Families.
Key Facts
- John Thornton Carrero was arrested on Wednesday in the Florida Keys.
- Charges include possession of cocaine, intent to distribute, child abuse, contributing to the delinquency of a minor, tampering with evidence, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving with a suspended license.
- The traffic stop occurred on U.S. 1 near Mile Marker 103 due to expired registration.
- Deputies allege Carrero forcefully placed over 10 grams of cocaine in the teen passenger's pocket to hide it during the stop.
- Authorities recovered .8 grams of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, including pipes and small bags, from the vehicle.
- The teen passenger was not arrested and was released to the care of a family member.
- The Department of Children and Families was notified of the incident.
Who's Mentioned
organizationDepartment of Children and Families“The state agency notified regarding the welfare of the teen passenger.”organizationMonroe County Sheriff’s Office“The law enforcement agency that conducted the stop and arrest.”other10“Grams of cocaine found on the teen.”location103“Mile Marker location of the traffic stop.”other51“Age of the suspect.”personJohn Thornton Carrero“The driver arrested during the traffic stop.”