The Key Largo Hit-and-Run: A Drug Trafficking Revelation

Key Largo, FL – On Thursday, January 14, 2020, at approximately 4:07 PM, the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) responded to a hit-and-run incident on US1/SR5 near Mile Marker 101, which had been reported by the victim of the crash. The reporting party stated that her vehicle had been struck by a pickup truck that continued driving northbound before later pulling onto Harry Davis Circle.

Upon arriving at New Port Village, where Harry Davis Circle is located, deputies discovered a grey Dodge with front-end damage and a detached bumper. Two white males, later identified as Taylor Pedro and Wes Thompson, were found inside the vehicle. Both individuals admitted to being involved in the hit-and-run.

Before confirming their identities, the responding deputy asked the men for identification. Taylor Pedro, who was driving the pickup truck, initially claimed he did not have a driver’s license and provided the name “Austin Pedro.” However, after being read his Miranda rights, Taylor admitted to giving false information to avoid trouble, as he did not possess a valid driver’s license.

Once the crash investigation concluded, a criminal investigation was initiated. Taylor Pedro admitted to being the driver of the Dodge Journey at the time of the accident and acknowledged that he had failed to stop and report the crash as required by law. He was subsequently taken into custody for leaving the scene of the crash.

During the arrest, Taylor voluntarily informed deputies that there were drugs inside the vehicle, including fentanyl. Due to the dangerous nature of the substance, MCSO Narcotics Detectives were called to the scene. The detectives conducted a probable cause search of the Dodge and discovered numerous pills, drug paraphernalia, and approximately 3 pounds of a substance that field-tested positive for methamphetamines in a safe located in the rear of the vehicle.

On September 10, 2024, Taylor Pedro was adjudicated guilty of trafficking in methamphetamines and sentenced by Judge Luis Garcia to seven years in state prison. He was also ordered to pay a $100,000 fine in addition to court costs.

State Attorney Dennis Ward praised the diligent work of the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, stating, “The swift and thorough response of the Monroe County deputies was crucial in bringing this case to justice. I also commend lead prosecutor Assistant State Attorney Trey Evans for his dedication in securing this conviction. Their combined efforts ensured the safety of our community and upheld the integrity of the legal process.”

Chief Assistant State Attorney Joseph Mansfield echoed these sentiments, saying, “Thanks to the swift actions of the Monroe County deputies, approximately 3 pounds of meth were seized and taken off the streets. This case is a prime example of how a routine investigation can uncover something much bigger. The dedication and diligence of these deputies were instrumental in protecting our community from further harm.”

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