Ex-NFL, CFL linebacker Adarius Taylor busted in Florida human trafficking sting, child endangerment
Former NFL and CFL linebacker Adarius Taylor, 34, faces felony and misdemeanor charges following his May 8 arrest in Polk County, Florida, as part of a multi-agency human trafficking sting dubbed “Fool Around and Find Out.”
Arrest details
Taylor was among 255 individuals apprehended during the nine-day operation led by the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, Lake County Sheriff’s Office, and federal agencies. Authorities allege he solicited an undercover officer posing as a sex worker and left his six-year-old child, who has epilepsy, unattended in a locked vehicle. Charged with felony negligent child abuse and misdemeanor solicitation, Taylor did not disclose the child’s presence upon arrest. The child was later placed with their mother.
Calgary Stampeder LB Adarius Taylor hauling down BC Lions receiver. Photo courtesy: Paul Yates/B.C. Lions
Career overview
Taylor played 88 NFL games for the Carolina Panthers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Cleveland Browns (2014–2020), earning $6.3 million USD. He recorded 140 tackles and two sacks before a brief 2023 stint with the CFL’s Calgary Stampeders, where he logged five tackles in three games.
Sheriff’s criticism
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd condemned Taylor’s actions, stating, “He must have hit one too many people as a linebacker—his brain cells are scrambled.” Judd emphasized the child’s vulnerability, citing medical and mental health needs.
Operation scope
The sting targeted human trafficking, child predators, and illegal immigration. Taylor’s arrest occurred after he reportedly negotiated services with an undercover officer but left without completing the transaction.
Legal proceedings
None of the charges have been tested in court. Taylor’s case highlights broader efforts to combat exploitation, with Sheriff Judd noting, “This wasn’t just about prostitution—it was about protecting victims.”
