Corrupt Cop Sentenced to Years Behind Bars Over Shocking Crimes

Gavel striking block in courtroom setting

Corruption within law enforcement reaches new heights with the case of James Hickox, a former sergeant from Florida, who manipulated DEA operations for personal gain.

Quick Takes

  • James Hickox, a former officer, was sentenced to 17 years for embezzling drugs, cash, and firearms.
  • He swapped DEA-seized cocaine with a 3D-printed version to sell real drugs.
  • He and Highway Patrol Trooper Joshua Earrey engaged in illegal activities over several years.
  • Hickox’s father cited stress and mental health issues as a factor in his son’s actions.

The Scope of Hickox’s Misdeeds

James Hickox’s 17-year federal prison sentence stems from various criminal activities during his service as a sergeant in the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office. Hickox replaced seized DEA cocaine with 3D-printed replicas to sell the original drugs. This scheme exemplifies a growing concern of misconduct among law enforcement working with the DEA. Combined with stealing cash and firearms from federal investigations, his acts represent a grave betrayal of public trust.

Investigations revealed that Hickox, alongside Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Joshua Earrey, engaged in corrupt activities from 2017 to 2023. Both officers went as far as staging a fake traffic stop to seize what they thought was fentanyl. This elaborate operation highlights the depth of corruption within the system, exacerbated by Hickox having received over $420,000 from selling seized drugs.

Hickox’s Methods and Consequences

Hickox confessed to not only tampering with DEA evidence bags but also to being directly involved in drug trafficking. He admitted to distributing marijuana, earning hundreds of dollars per pound. His manipulation extended to falsifying paperwork, covering the theft of over 1,000 pounds of marijuana from evidence.

“Law enforcement officers who operate as though they are above the law betray the badge and the citizens they swore to protect.” – FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge Kristin Rehler

Authorities found significant amounts of cocaine and fentanyl in Hickox’s home. His covert operations included collaborating with drug traffickers, telling them the actual cocaine would be sold for around $20,000. The scale of Hickox’s deceptions became more apparent as his actions led to charges being dropped against two individuals in separate cases due to Hickox and Earrey’s involvement.

Looking to the Future: A Need for Reform

The fallout from Hickox’s actions isn’t limited to his 17-year sentence. His father suggested that stress and the lack of mental health counseling played a role in his son’s criminal behavior. This case exemplifies a broader issue within law enforcement agencies, emphasizing the need for comprehensive mental health care and a closer examination of internal corruption.

“I stand here today as a guilty man.” – James Darrell Hickox

Nassau County Court has ordered Hickox to serve a 10-year supervised release with stringent restrictions upon completing his prison term. Prosecutors labeled him as a “thief, a crooked cop, and a drug dealer with a badge,” emphasizing greed as his primary motive. With restitution determination within 90 days, Hickox’s case might serve as a catalyst for reforms among law enforcement officers working closely with the DEA.

Sources:

  1. Florida Officer Who Pleaded Guilty to Stealing Seized DEA Drugs Gets 17 Years in Prison
  2. A Florida officer who pleaded guilty to stealing seized DEA drugs gets 17 years in prison
  3. ‘You disgraced law enforcement’: Ex-Nassau County sergeant sentenced to 17+ years for federal drug crimes