KEY WEST, FL — Austin Michael Kimbler, 28, a firefighter with the Key West Fire Department, was arrested on Tuesday, Dec. 31, after authorities found cocaine, anabolic steroids, and drug paraphernalia during a search of his residence in Big Coppitt Key.
Kimbler was charged with possession of controlled substances, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of a new legend drug, according to a Monroe County Sheriff’s Office news release. Detectives uncovered digital scales and drug paraphernalia at his Del Mar Boulevard residence, in addition to the illegal substances.
Several plastic bottles containing urine, commonly associated with attempts to bypass drug tests, were discovered in Kimbler’s vehicle.
Kimbler, employed as a firefighter since 2018 and earning $75,000 annually, was taken to jail but later released on a $20,000 bond.
Sheriff Rick Ramsay expressed regret over the arrest, stating, “This is a sad case… He should have sought help before it escalated to this point.” He added that Kimbler’s actions were a disservice to both the city and the fire department, tarnishing the reputation of the badge.
Kimbler faces a predetermination hearing on Monday, Jan. 6, to discuss his employment status with the Key West Fire Department, according to city spokeswoman Alyson Crean.
