Ah, Florida. The land of sunshine, palm trees, and… checks notes… people trying to buy drugs on Craigslist like it’s the classifieds section of a 1990s newspaper.
Meet Anthony Mata, a man who clearly missed the memo that Craigslist is for used couches and questionable job offers—not scoring meth. In what can only be described as a bold career move, Mata posted an ad that read: “New to the area, looking for ice or crack.”
Now, most people would assume this was either a typo or a cry for help. But not our guy Anthony. Nope, he was all in. And guess who saw his ad? Not a friendly neighborhood dealer, but an undercover cop who was probably like, “Oh, honey… no.”
The investigator, playing the role of Totally Legit Drug Seller, set up a meet with Mata, who eagerly negotiated an “eight ball” of meth for $80. (Side note: If you’re haggling over meth prices, maybe reevaluate your life choices.)
When Mata showed up to the meet, cash in hand, he got a surprise party—the kind where the guests are deputies and the gift is handcuffs. His buddy, Stephen Hornsby, also got a free ride to jail for being the world’s worst wingman.
Mata now faces charges for purchasing meth and using a two-way communication device unlawfully—because apparently, Craigslist isn’t the preferred marketplace for illegal substances. Who knew?
So, let this be a lesson, folks: If you’re “new to the area” and looking to make friends, maybe try a local meetup group instead of posting a Craigslist ad that reads like a police report waiting to happen.
Mugshots courtesy of the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office—because nothing says “Florida Man” like a booking photo with zero regrets.