DELRAY BEACH, Fla. (CBS12) — A Delray Beach Police Officer, Matthew Cusson, has been arrested and accused of stealing $1,500 from the department’s Vice Investigations and Narcotics Unit (VIN) — with DNA evidence leading to his identification.
The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) launched an investigation after receiving a report on April 16 about missing funds from a cash box used in undercover operations. Upon arrival, deputies spoke with the Lieutenant and Sergeant overseeing the VIN unit.
According to the arrest affidavit, on April 15, the sergeant had removed $800 from the box for an active case. After the case concluded, the agents returned $623.01, raising the total in the box to $1,973.41. The next day, the sergeant discovered that 75 $20 bills, totaling $1,500, were gone — leaving just $473.41.
Crime Scene Investigators dusted the box for fingerprints, which matched Officer Cusson. Though the sergeant admitted he may have accidentally left the box unlocked, the physical evidence pointed clearly to Cusson.
When questioned by deputies, Cusson invoked his Miranda rights and requested legal counsel.
Cusson was arrested on April 16 and later released on a $50,000 bond. He has been placed on administrative leave as both internal affairs and criminal investigations proceed.
The case raises serious concerns about internal oversight and accountability within the department.
