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The Miami-Dade community is on high alert following the unexpected release of James Edward Daniels, an inmate sentenced to life imprisonment for the kidnapping, torture, and murder of two Cuban truckers in 2020.
The incident, which has been attributed to a "procedural error", has triggered harsh criticism of the local prison system and a search operation involving federal authorities.
The crime that shook Opa-locka
On December 5, 2020, the bodies of Cubans Osmar Oliva (50 years old) and Johan González Quesada (26) were found in the yard of an abandoned house on 1801 Rutland Street, in Opa-locka, showing evident signs of torture and multiple gunshot wounds.
A third victim survived the attack.
It was reported that the three victims were kidnapped at a truck park, bound, and tortured for hours inside a truck.
Later, two of them were executed with a shot to the head, and the bodies were left behind.
The attackers, including Daniels, also stole drugs and jewelry.
Life imprisonment and the profile of Daniels
James Edward Daniels (alias "45") was found guilty in December 2024 alongside Frederick Eugene Rudolph and sentenced to life in prison.
Herbert Barr, another individual involved, pleaded guilty last November and received a sentence of twelve and a half years.
After his conviction, Daniels was serving his sentence in a federal prison in Lake City, Florida, until he was transferred to Miami-Dade to face additional local charges, as explained by CBS News.
The mistake that set him free
On Saturday, September 27, 2025, Daniels was released from the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center (TGK) due to a "procedural error," as reported in a statement - cited by the local press - by the Miami-Dade Corrections and Rehabilitation Department.
“Inmate James Daniels was released from TGK due to a procedural error. Our priority is to ensure his swift capture and return to custody,” the department stated in the official announcement.
"A comprehensive Internal Affairs investigation is underway to review the circumstances of this incident and any potential violations of department policies," adds the document.
This error has not only caused alarm but also raised serious questions about the functioning of the prison system.
According to CBS News, federal marshals were not notified of the release until a day later, which delayed the start of the search operation.
Testimonials from the community: Outrage and fear
Neighbors in the neighborhood where the double murder occurred expressed their horror at learning that Daniels is free again.
A woman interviewed by Univisión, who witnessed the police deployment on December 5, 2020, stated:
"It's incredible how they can let a man who has killed people go free, by mistake, out in our city again. It's unbelievable, I'm in shock."
“Quickly the police arrived, closed off the entire block, set up a SWAT team, investigations, detectives, everyone came and secured the area, and the rescue team arrived. This is distressing, a tremendous mistake in our system... this is negligence,” she added.
From the perspective of security experts, the case has also sparked severe criticism.
The former police officer Wayne Black, interviewed by Local 10, questioned: “How can they release this guy convicted of murder? It's pure negligence.”
He added, "I’m also concerned about the people who testified against him. I wonder if we are doing the right thing by protecting them now until he is arrested."
Daniels, now an armed and extremely dangerous fugitive
All reports agree that Daniels is considered armed and extremely dangerous.
Authorities have issued flyers with his image and have deployed coordinated operations by local, state, and federal agencies.
The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office is working alongside the FBI to achieve their swift recapture.
"The main priority of the Miami-Dade Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation is to ensure his swift apprehension and safe return to custody," reiterated spokesperson Juan Diasgranados, cited by Telemundo 51.
Authorities are offering a reward of $5,000 for information leading to his capture. You can contact anonymously at:
Miami-Dade County Crime Stoppers: 305-471-8477.
Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office: 305-471-2400.
Conclusion: Urgent questions, pending answers
As the search for James Daniels continues, the incident has revealed serious flaws in the protocols for the custody and transfer of dangerous inmates.
The accidental release of a convicted multiple murderer is not just an administrative error: it is a real threat to public safety.
The exact details of the error are still unknown. Was it a human mistake, an issue with the paperwork, or a more serious violation of security protocols? Authorities have promised to hold those responsible accountable.
"Cases like this are extremely rare... but also extremely unacceptable," concluded retired officer Wayne Black.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Accidental Release of James Edward Daniels in Miami
Why was James Edward Daniels, a convicted murderer, released in Miami?
James Edward Daniels was released due to a "procedural error" at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center (TGK). This administrative error has raised significant alarm in the community and has triggered a search operation for his recapture.
What is the criminal history of James Edward Daniels?
James Edward Daniels was sentenced to life in prison for the kidnapping, torture, and murder of two Cuban truck drivers in 2020. He was found guilty alongside Frederick Eugene Rudolph for these crimes committed in Opa-locka.
What measures are the authorities taking to capture James Edward Daniels?
The authorities have deployed operations coordinated by local, state, and federal agencies to recapture Daniels. The Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office and the FBI are working together, and a reward of $5,000 has been offered for information leading to his capture.
How has the Miami-Dade community reacted to Daniels' release?
The Miami-Dade community has reacted with outrage and fear following the release of James Edward Daniels. Neighbors in the area where the murder occurred have expressed their horror and concern for public safety, and security experts have severely criticized the administrative mistake.
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