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West Palm Beach Criminal Lawyer / Blog / Drug Crimes / Florida Beaches Sometimes See Unexpected Surprises

Florida Beaches Sometimes See Unexpected Surprises

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The state of Florida has historically been a center of drug trafficking and sale, leaving scars on the state’s jurisprudence and its population. Its location at the nexus of multiple seas and oceans has made it unfortunately common for drugs to slip into the state via water – however, sometimes the loads do not make it to dry land. In 2025, more than one instance of “square groupers” – tightly packed bricks of cannabis or other drugs – was reported on Florida beaches. If you are so unlucky as to find one, it is crucial to leave it alone and call the appropriate authorities.

Why Are They Found?

There are two reasons that these unexpected finds appear on Florida beaches, with both having to do with the patterns of drug smugglers. The first is simply that sometimes, drops by air or sea go wrong, and the ‘product’ ends up in the wrong place; the second results from smugglers occasionally deliberately dumping their cargo if they fear law enforcement is nearby. Regardless, many of these packages wind upon Florida beaches, to be found by innocent beachcombers, while others end up hundreds of feet underwater.

The primary concern about these ‘square groupers’ is ecological, with naturalists unsure about the possible effects of drugs like cocaine on local wildlife like sharks. Tests have even been done to measure the results of such exposure. However, these events can also get humans into legal trouble if they do not report the find in the proper manner. Florida takes drug possession extremely seriously, and many state’s attorneys are not averse to filing such charges.

Be Careful!

If you are out walking and find one or more of these packages, it is crucial not to touch it. Contacting the authorities ASAP is the best choice to make in this situation – not only because these bricks can be dangerous, as multiple substances can be mixed with the ‘pure’ drugs, but also because taking too long to report the find can see you accused of drug possession (or even possession with intent to sell).

While you have nothing to fear if you act appropriately, a charge of drug possession in Florida should still be taken seriously if you are ever charged in this way. An experienced attorney who understands the Florida legal system can protect your rights and ensure that you get your day in court.

Call A West Palm Beach Drug Possession Attorney

It is unlikely that you will ever spot a “square grouper” on the sands in Florida, but if you do, it is important to act appropriately. A charge of drug possession, despite being a misdemeanor, can cause real problems in a person’s life. The West Palm Beach drug possession attorneys at Perlet & Shiner, P.A. can help advise you if you do wind up having to go through the legal process. Call our office today to speak to an attorney.

Source:

clickorlando.com/news/florida/2025/08/01/why-does-cocaine-keep-washing-up-on-floridas-beaches/

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