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 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 today. Both suspects face one count of racketeering and one count of conspiracy to commit extortion.
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.
In February 2017, FDLE agents found that Aguiar and Isnardi had an ongoing pattern of criminal activities. Agents determined that Aguiar, a local businessman, sought to control Palm Bay’s city government and influence votes for his benefit. The investigation showed Aguiar and Isnardi plotted to have a Palm Bay councilman arrested for drugs. The investigation also revealed that Aguiar and Isnardi had planned to install cameras at a home in hopes to record Palm Bay government officials in compromising situations.
Aguiar and Isnardi were both taken to the Brevard County Jail. The case will be prosecuted by the State Attorney’s Office, 18th Judicial Circuit.
