Six employees with the State Attorney’s Office were fired Friday after an investigation into illegal drug activity.
- State attorney fires 6 workers after drug investigation
- Aramis Ayala learned about illegal activity right after she took office
- 2 assistant state attorneys, 4 victim advocates let go
State Attorney Aramis Ayala, who took office just this month, learned in her first week on the job that six employees used, witnessed or were in the presence of illegal drug activities.
The drugs involved were cocaine and cannabis.
Ayala said during a news conference at the Orange County Courthouse in Orlando that the workers had been suspended and were fired Friday.
The employees let go are: Two assistant state attorneys, Alicia Virginio and Danielle Wall; and four victim advocates, Shannon Solo, Rachel Shaw, Barbara Brown and Casey Perkins.
Ayala added they do not have evidence to proceed criminally. But Ayala said she wants every person in her office to have integrity, be ethical and show professionalism.
“Based on the power and authority employees of this office possess, I will hold each of us to a higher standard. The job is an honor, but even more importantly, the job is a responsibility," she said.
Ayala serves Orange and Osceola counties and represents the state of Florida in court. The state attorney said it is important for her office to be transparent and follow the laws it is implementing.
Ayala also spoke about cultural and structural changes. She wants to be connected to the community and the voice of justice for every person.
She’s created a community outreach team to spearhead that effort.