Workers take cash to haul away bulk trash, cops say

Garbage collection can be a dirty business, and Fort Lauderdale police say two city employees accepted cash bribes to take away bulk trash that was over city limits.

Arrested Thursday were Liel Hilaire, 43, of Pembroke Pines, and Roudy Ambroise, 50, of Tamarac. They are each facing one count of grand theft between $300 and $5,000 and bribery-unlawful compensation.

The men admitted to taking the money while on duty, according to arrest reports.

On April 11 and 12, Hilaire and Ambroise asked for — and received — payments totaling $390 from residents at two properties to haul away bulk trash, the reports said.

City employees told police of their suspicions and an undercover operation began.

Hilaire and Ambroise were seen taking $100 from another resident to take away the bulk garbage, police said.

In a press release, City Manager Lee Feldman called the alleged bribes “unacceptable” and praised Parks and Recreation staff and police for their quick responses.

Police ask anyone who witnesses such transactions to report them at 954-828-5700.

On April 12, Hilaire, who was hired Nov. 28, 2016, and Ambroise, hired Nov. 17, 2015, were placed on 20 days of un-

paid leave.

They have 10 days to appeal their status. If they are fired, that would happen May 2, city spokesman Chaz Adams said in an email Friday.

Efforts to reach Hilaire and Ambroise for comment were not successful.

Bulk trash crews may pick up a maximum of 10 cubic yards, and there is a $13 charge for each additional cubic yard, Adams said.

Ten cubic yards is about the size of a small dumpster.

Residents should never pay cash in order to have large piles hauled away.

They are encouraged to call 954-828-8000 to prearrange for pickup of piles that exceed 10 cubic yards.

If those arrangements are not made in advance, pickup crews are instructed to contact a supervisor who will come on site to explain options and any charges, Adams said.

Payments may be made only by personal check, cashier’s check or money order to a supervisor who will issue a receipt.