Miami‑Dade County prosecutors announced Friday that the drug case against Thomas Jardon, the former housing director for Citrus Health Network, will not move forward. The State Attorney’s Office filed a “No Action Memorandum,” effectively ending that particular charge.
Fraud case remains active
Jardon’s broader criminal case is far from resolved. He still faces 57 counts, including racketeering, organized scheme to defraud, grand theft and identity theft, stemming from an alleged scheme that siphoned more than $1 million from the Miami‑Dade Homeless Trust.
According to the arrest warrant, investigators say Jardon created and controlled multiple companies that generated fraudulent leases for housing that was never provided to homeless clients. Several property owners told authorities they never authorized those companies to manage their properties and had no relationship with the homeless housing program.
Authorities also allege Jardon billed Citrus Health Network for furniture supposedly delivered to homeless families, but in many cases the items never reached the intended recipients. The warrant claims those expenses were later submitted for county reimbursement.
Luxury purchases cited as evidence
Prosecutors contend that proceeds from the alleged fraud funded an extravagant lifestyle. Miami‑Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle noted that investigators discovered Jardon had purchased two $19,000 Rolex watches, an 18‑karat gold Cuban chain, twelve lithographs from a Swiss art dealer, designer clothing, plane tickets, hotel stays, and four new vehicles—including a Jeep, a BMW and two Chevrolet Silverado trucks.
The drug investigation originally stemmed from the same overall probe that led to Jardon’s arrest on dozens of fraud‑related charges. During his first court appearance, a judge referenced allegations that law enforcement found methamphetamine, Cialis, Viagra and Alprazolam during a search of the home where Jardon was living.
What’s next?
While the drug charge has been dismissed, the Miami‑Dade State Attorney’s Office indicated it will continue to pursue the extensive fraud case. The outcome of those proceedings will determine whether Jardon faces additional penalties beyond the pending charges.
Residents and advocacy groups have expressed concern over the alleged misuse of funds intended to aid the county’s homeless population. The case underscores the importance of vigilant oversight of charitable programs and the need for accountability when public resources are at stake.
Original reporting: NBC6 Miami — read the source article.
