Search for human trafficking suspect also turns up Brazilian arrested for practicing dentistry without a license, according to St. Lucie County Sheriff Mascara
When federal agents arrested a wanted suspect in a human trafficking case Wednesday, they also came across a Brazilian practicing dentistry without a license, according to St. Lucie County Sheriff Ken J. Mascara.
“Our detectives arrested Braulio Garcia Tanuma, 32, for practicing dentistry without a license and possession of drug equipment,” Sheriff Mascara said. “He was taken to jail Wednesday and was released after posting $4,500 bond today.
The arrest took place at 4603 Redwood Drive in northern St. Lucie County where federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents were looking for Solange Nassimbeni. The agents had an arrest warrant for “alien trafficking.” At the home, Marta N. Ferreira answered the door and allowed agents to search the home where they found Nassimbeni.
While the agents were searching the home, they found what looked like a dental laboratory and dental equipment. They sent for St. Lucie County Sheriff’s detectives who interviewed Tanuma who was inside the home.
He admitted practicing dentistry and admitted he didn’t have a license to do so in America. He claimed to be a dentist in Brazil. He had patients booked for the next several day and $4,515 in cash from his “dental” practice.
Detectives seized Tanuma’s equipment, drugs, records and cash and took him to the St. Lucie County jail, Sheriff Mascara said.
ABOUT THE SHERIFF:
The Florida Constitution establishes the Office of the elected County Sheriff who is responsible for preserving the peace, carrying out the orders of Florida courts and the Board of County Commissioners, and providing deputies at court sessions and meetings of the Board of County Commissioners. The Sheriff is the chief correctional officer of the county. Sheriff Ken J. Mascara is elected by the people of St. Lucie County and is accountable to them.
