A sophisticated cheating operation targeting driver license examinations in Miami-Dade County came to an abrupt end on July 16, 2026, when authorities arrested three men who allegedly used hidden cameras and earpieces to fraudulently pass the computer-based tests.
The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office identified the suspects as Karel Clavel-Beltran, 46, a Hialeah resident; Alexis Franc Fernandez, 63, from Tampa; and Miguel Nunez-Garcia, 47, of Miami. According to investigators, Clavel-Beltran served as the mastermind behind the scheme, providing technological assistance to help the other two men bypass the examination process.
How the Cheating Operation Worked
The elaborate scheme involved strategically placed cameras concealed within clothing and wireless earpieces that allowed real-time communication during the examination. According to arrest reports, both Nunez-Garcia and Fernandez wore Polo shirts specifically equipped with hidden button cameras that transmitted the exam questions to Clavel-Beltran, who then relayed the correct answers through the earpieces.
Investigators noted that wearing Polo shirts to conceal recording devices has become a common practice among those attempting to cheat on licensing exams. The suspects would typically change their attire immediately after completing the test to avoid detection.
The incident occurred at the Midway Crossings Tax Collector Office located at 7795 West Flagler Street. Nunez-Garcia, who had reportedly failed the examination multiple times before, finally passed on July 16 with Clavel-Beltran’s assistance. He allegedly paid $600 for the fraudulent service.
One Suspect Failed Despite Cheating Assistance
In an ironic twist, Fernandez was unable to benefit from the cheating scheme despite having the same equipment. According to his arrest report, he still failed the examination because he could not hear Clavel-Beltran’s answers clearly through the malfunctioning earpiece. Fernandez had reportedly brought a large sum of cash to pay for the service but was detained by investigators before the transaction could occur.
A Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles compliance officer first spotted Fernandez acting suspiciously when he was observed entering a white truck wearing a gray T-shirt and then exiting moments later wearing a Polo shirt, raising immediate red flags.
The arrests come in the context of a state law that took effect on February 6, 2026, requiring all driver license examinations to be administered solely in English. Neither Nunez-Garcia nor Fernandez could understand English, according to the arrest reports, yet both attempted to take the English-only examination.
Charges Filed Against the Three Suspects
The suspects face multiple criminal charges related to the scheme:
- Fernandez and Nunez-Garcia were charged with cheating and unlawful use of a communications device
- Clavel-Beltran faces more serious charges including organized scheme to defraud, cheating, unlawful use of a communications device, and providing a false name or identification after arrest
- Records indicate Clavel-Beltran also has an outstanding warrant from a 2008 case involving cannabis trafficking and grand theft charges
All three suspects appeared in bond court on July 17, 2026. Fernandez was granted a $5,000 bond, while Clavel-Beltran and Nunez-Garcia, both Cuban nationals, will remain in custody on immigration holds.
“Obtaining a driver license is a privilege that comes with the responsibility of safely operating a vehicle on our roadways. When someone attempts to cheat the testing process, they undermine the integrity of the system and put the safety of our community at risk. MDSO remains committed to protecting the integrity of the licensing process and ensuring that only qualified drivers earn the privilege to get behind the wheel.”
Officials Warn of Continued Enforcement
Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez announced that the investigation remains ongoing and additional arrests could be forthcoming as authorities continue to examine the full scope of the operation.
“When individuals attempt to cheat the testing process, they undermine the integrity of the system and put public safety at risk,” the Tax Collector stated. “Fraud has no place in our offices or around our facilities, and anyone who attempts to obtain a government-issued credential through deception should expect to be held accountable.”
The case highlights growing concerns about examination fraud and the lengths to which some individuals will go to obtain driver licenses without demonstrating the required knowledge and competency. Law enforcement officials emphasize that such schemes not only violate the law but also pose genuine dangers to public safety by potentially putting unqualified drivers behind the wheel on Florida’s roadways.
