Former Palm Bay Public Official Arrested For Racketeering, Conspiracy to Commit Extortion
By Space Coast Daily // May 10, 2019
FBI, FDLE investigation began in 2015
An investigation into allegations of bribery involving City of Palm Bay public officials has concluded with two arrests on charges that include racketeering and conspiracy to commit extortion.
BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – An investigation into allegations of bribery involving City of Palm Bay public officials has concluded with two arrests on charges that include racketeering and conspiracy to commit extortion.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and FDLE agents in the Brevard Field Office worked together on the case, which began in 2015.
Jose Aguiar, 48, of 515 Grant Road, Palm Bay, and David Dominic Isnardi, 59, of 562 Olivia St. NW, Palm Bay, were arrested on Friday.
Both suspects face one count of racketeering and one count of conspiracy to commit extortion.
Attorney Bryan Lober is representing Isnardi and issued the following statement:
"To support our constitution requires respecting the fundamental presumption of innocence and the right of those accused to due process," said Lober.
"Dave hasn't been convicted of anything in relation to these years old hyper-political allegations. Given the number of individuals allegedly involved and the complexity of the allegations, this is not a case which is likely to be resolved quickly. I have no doubt that the facts will become increasingly clear in the coming months.
"Dave has an exceedingly fair judge assigned to this case and I am confident the process will be conducted with the utmost integrity," said Lober.
Isnardi, the former Deputy City Manager of Palm Bay, also faces three counts of conspiracy to possess a controlled substance with intent to deliver for meth, oxycodone and tramadol.
Aguiar faces additional charges of three counts of possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, deliver or manufacture for meth, oxycodone and tramadol; and three counts of delivery for meth, oxycodone and tramadol.
According to the arrest warrants, in February 2017, FDLE agents allege that Aguiar and Isnardi had an ongoing pattern of criminal activities. Agents contend that Aguiar, a local businessman, sought to control Palm Bay's city government and influence votes for his benefit.
The investigation also alleges Aguiar and Isnardi plotted to have a Palm Bay councilman arrested for drugs and that Aguiar and Isnardi had planned to install cameras at a home in hopes to record Palm Bay government officials in compromising situations.
The case will be prosecuted by the State Attorney's Office, 18th Judicial Circuit.
STAY TUNED TO SPACE COAST DAILY FOR UPDATES
Arrests In Brevard County: May 9, 2019 – Suspects Presumed Innocent Until Proven Guilty
CLICK HERE FOR BREVARD COUNTY NEWS
Melbourne Main Street to Host 5th Annual Downtown Melbourne Botanical Fest March 6