MIAMI BEACH, Fla. – A two-year-old boy was safely rescued from a South Beach apartment described by authorities as a “drug den,” after police executed a strategic operation to remove him from the dangerous environment.
Miami Beach police said officers had responded multiple times to the building near 11th Street and Euclid Avenue for reports of drug deals and overdoses.
But in late March, a new tip led them back — this time, with concerns that a toddler was inside.
Knowing a direct raid could put the child at risk, officers came up with a different plan.
“Instead of going in guns drawn — because of the 2 year old — they lured everyone outside of the location,” said Christopher Bess, a Miami Beach police officer and spokesman for the department.
Once inside, police say they found a dangerous environment for any child, drugs, loaded guns and evidence of criminal activity.
“They probably prevented him from being exposed to the cocaine and oxycodone pills that could have killed him,” Bess added. “These drugs, including fentanyl, kill adults. Can you imagine what it does to a 2-year-old baby?”
Two people were taken into custody, including the child’s father, Stephen Rich, and Keanti Collins, investigators said.
As SWAT officers secured the apartment, one moment stood out — an officer pausing at the door, turning back as a children’s cartoon played in the background, a stark contrast to the chaos in the home.
“This could’ve been disastrous and that 2-year-old was in harm’s way yet again,” said Bess.
Authorities say the boy, who turned 3 years old on Thursday, is now safe as the investigation continues.
Anyone with information on the case is urged to call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477.
