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NewsThe Miami HurricaneOctober 27, 2026Miami-Dade County

Five University of Miami students arrested during Fantasy Fest in Key West

Five University of Miami students were arrested by the Monroe County Sheriff's Office in Key West during the Fantasy Fest festival on Oct. 24 and 25. The arrests involved a mix of felony drug charges and misdemeanor offenses, including drug possession, paraphernalia, public intoxication, and obstructing law enforcement.

Public SafetyCrimeHigher Education
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Why It Matters

The arrests highlight increased law enforcement presence during major regional events, with more than 100 officers patrolling the Key West festival that draws nearly 75,000 attendees.

Key Facts

  • Five University of Miami students were arrested in Key West during the annual Fantasy Fest Halloween Festival on Oct. 24 or 25.
  • The Monroe County Sheriff's office carried out the arrests, while more than 100 officers from multiple agencies patrolled the event.
  • Fantasy Fest is a 10-day Halloween celebration that attracts approximately 75,000 attendees.
  • Student A was charged with two felonies, including possession of a controlled substance and manufacturing or delivering drug paraphernalia, after officers found Ketamine and Molly.
  • Student B was arrested for possession of a controlled substance without a lawful prescription after being found in a public bathroom.
  • Student C was arrested for a misdemeanor of inhaling dangerous drugs.
  • Student D was arrested for urinating on the side of Rick’s Bar and resisting an officer without violence.
  • Student E was charged with a misdemeanor for obstructing a law enforcement officer from performing a Marchman Act and violating arrest without violence.

Who's Mentioned

OrganizationKey West Police Department“Law enforcement agency that deployed officers during the festival”OrganizationRick’s Bar“Location where Student D was found urinating”OrganizationUniversity of Miami“Institution attended by the arrested students”OrganizationMonroe County Sheriff’s office“Agency that took the five students into custody”PersonShannon Perzel“Key West Public Information Officer who provided arrest reports”OrganizationThe Hurricane“Student news publication reporting on the arrests”locationKey West“Location of the Fantasy Fest festival”