In Hialeah, a disturbing scene unfurled as a local couple was apprehended, while their home doubled as a marketplace for narcotics, all in the disturbing view of their teenage daughter. According to Local 10, Peder Andre Larsen, a 48-year-old man, faces a litany of 18 felony drug charges in connection with the operation. His wife, Sharon Kira Larsen, a 47-year-old teacher at Miami-Dade County Public Schools, was charged with child abuse for her role, or rather her presence, during these illicit transactions.
An undercover operation by Hialeah Police Special Investigations Section's Narcotics Unit, which started on April 21, revealed Larsen openly conducted drug transactions from their 5490 W. 21st Court apartment. Methamphetamines, heroin, fentanyl, and other controlled substances were sold directly to undercover officers, according to a report by WSVN. The couple's 17-year-old daughter was observed in the vicinity during these dealings, a fact that contributed to the additional charge of child abuse without great bodily harm leveled against both parents.
The search warrant executed at the residence unearthed over 1,400 grams of a methamphetamine-fentanyl concoction, 125 grams of cocaine, 67 grams of heroin, among other drugs including THC cartridges and suspected Xanax, per Local 10's report. Law enforcement also found in excess of $20,000, some of which was stored in vacuum-sealed containers and a safe. Notably, investigators observed firearms at the home during the undercover operation.
The child abuse charges, stem from, the Larsens allegedly conducting drug deals in front of their minor daughter, and maintaining a home environment rife with easily accessible narcotics. A spokesperson for Miami-Dade County Public Schools said the district is profoundly troubled by the allegations that led to the individual's arrest, underscoring the seriousness of the situation and the district's position. As reported by WSVN, the spokesperson clarified that while the incident was not school-related, termination proceedings have been initiated against Sharon Larsen.
Peder Larsen is currently being held without bond, facing a multitude of trafficking charges, while Sharon Larsen's bond was set at $2,500. She will be allowed supervised contact with her daughter, but Peder Larsen has been ordered to stay away from his child.
