Miami Jail Guard Accused of Running Hard Rock Bet Wagers and Drugs for Inmates

Renel Troutman, 24, a Miami-Dade corrections officer, was arrested on September 30 on federal charges that include conspiracy to possess controlled substances with intent to distribute, Hobbs Act extortion under color of official right, conspiracy and racketeering promotion. The allegations have not been proven in court.

According to the complaint as reported, the network moved K2, a synthetic cannabinoid, into facilities on treated paper while also enabling gambling among inmates. An organizer allegedly coordinated drug quantities, pricing, deliveries, payments and wagers, and messages referenced Hard Rock Bet. Troutman is accused of relaying wagers, balances and payments, and agents say he described his own role as limited to acting as a bookie.

Investigators also say he floated hiding one shipment inside a food delivery, reasoning that colleagues rarely inspect a plate of takeout. He reportedly met the organizer through an inmate about a year and a half earlier. If convicted, he could face decades in prison.