A South Florida physician is currently facing charges after being accused of trafficking an illegal substance known for its use as a date rape drug. Dr. Darion Garcia, 44, connected to the University of Miami Health System as an assistant professor of radiology, is the individual apprehended under these serious allegations.

According to CBS News, law enforcement took action against Garcia after intercepting packages containing gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) that were arriving from France at Miami International Airport. The packages were intended for a Coral Gables duplex owned by Garcia, who allegedly instructed his tenants to temporarily hold the shipments.

Garcia's arrest was prompted by another package sent to his diagnostics business, indicating a wider scope of suspected illegal activities. He was arrested and booked at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, where he posted a $15,000 bond.

One tenant, who wished to remain anonymous, told NBC Miami that they were surprised to see police and SWAT teams arriving with guns drawn, finding themselves in a situation far from their usual expectations. The tenant recounted the judge's words: "He should be so embarrassed being here, he's a medical doctor going through all those years of education and help committing his life to helping people and got arrested for this, but that's between him and his lawyer and the criminal justice system."

The substance involved, GBL, is a chemical commonly found in household products like cleaning solutions and nail polish remover, but it is also misused as a substitute and precursor for gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), a drug linked to narcotics-facilitated sexual assaults. Jackson Hospital clarified that while Garcia is not an employee, his privileges to work at their facilities have been indefinitely suspended. The investigation into Garcia's activities is ongoing as authorities continue their inquiry.