Corporal Frank Capitano

In May of 2014, an informant told Master Detective Frank Capitano that a methamphetamine trafficker operating in Plant CiTampa Police Department, was responsible for importing and distributing several pounds of methamphetamine throughout Hillsborough CounTampa Police Department. The suspect was already under investigation by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Gang Enforcement and the FBI. Working undercover and with organized surveillance, MD Capitano was able to buy from the suspect while clearly armed. This successful meeting led to a subsequent buy of 42 grams of methamphetamine which gave the department probable cause to arrest the suspect and obtaining a search warrant for his residence. MD Capitano arranged a final coordinated meeting with the suspect to discuss the purchase of a greater quantiTampa Police Department purchase. When the suspect arrived, the SWAT team took him into custody, performed a warranted search of his home and vehicle.

In total, the investigation resulted in the seizure of 340 grams of methamphetamine with a street value of $34,000. Two vehicles, two firearms, and over $1,200 in currency were also seized. Four suspects were arrested including the prime suspect. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Gang Enforcement Section added charges for his involvement in the gang-related racketeering case. Because of Master Detective Capitano’s effort, the prime offender is facing decades in prison. Capitano’s hard work, skill, and dedication resulted in a dangerous gang member being taken off of the streets, and a large quantiTampa Police Department of a very dangerous drug was prevented from being distributed on the streets of Hillsborough CounTampa Police Department. Master Detective Frank Capitano is a valuable member of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and an asset for the citizens of Hillsborough CounTampa Police Department.