MIAMI, FL – Two Miami-Dade County inspectors are facing serious legal trouble after being arrested on charges of extortion. Authorities allege that the inspectors targeted local businesses, demanding cash in exchange for overlooking supposed violations. The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the state attorney, announced the arrests and emphasized their commitment to tackling public corruption.
Charles Bryant and Craig Bethel, both inspectors with the Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources, have been charged with organized fraud and unlawful compensation. Investigators claim the duo extorted more than $14,000 from local restaurants and businesses. The scheme reportedly involved fabricating violations and then offering to resolve the issues for a fee.
The investigation began in May 2024, following a tip from the Shinjuku Japanese Buffet in southwest Miami-Dade. Restaurant owners reported that Bryant claimed they had a leaky grease trap and threatened a $50,000 fine unless they paid him $2,000 to dismiss the violation. This pattern was allegedly repeated at other establishments, including the neighboring Jamaica Kitchen.
The operation, dubbed “Operation Grease Trap,” linked Bryant to extortion activities at four additional local restaurants. It also uncovered alleged illicit actions by fellow inspector Bethel, who is accused of conducting similar shakedowns at eight eateries.
Authorities are now searching for other potential victims and suspect there may be more corrupt inspectors involved. They urge business owners who believe they have been victimized to come forward and report their experiences. The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office and State Attorney’s Office have set up hotlines for reporting such incidents.
Both Bryant and Bethel have been detained and are expected to face a judge soon. The case highlights the ongoing efforts to root out corruption within public services and protect local businesses from exploitation.