From Sept. 15 through Oct. 12, U.S. Customs and Border Protection said more than $300,000 worth of smuggled drugs washed up on Florida shores.
In all, agents found nearly 400 pounds of marijuana in 15 different locations near the Florida Keys and eastern coastline, CPB said.
"There has been a significant spike in drugs washing up on shore," CBP Miami Sector Division Chief Todd Bryant said. "This is at least partially attributable to improved partnerships across the state, but potentially also to a shift in smuggling methods."
Agents have recorded 95 cases of drugs washing up on Florida beaches in fiscal year 2016, compared to 49 for all of fiscal year 2015.
CPB warned residents to report any suspicious packages floating in the water. What is inside can be very dangerous, Bryant said.
"If you are out on a boat or on the beach and you see a suspicious package, call local law enforcement immediately," he said. "Attempting to keep the suspicious package can place you in danger as violent criminal networks will attempt to recover their narcotics."
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