A Monroe County Grand Jury has issued a superseding indictment against former Key West Chief Building Official Rajindhar “Raj” Ramsingh and local contractor Max Yael Heller, charging them with conspiracy to commit official misconduct. The case follows an extensive joint investigation by the Monroe County State Attorney’s Office and the FBI, revealing alleged manipulation of city building records between November 2021 and February 2024. According to the indictment, Ramsingh and Heller conspired to alter official documents to give unlawful advantages to certain developers and property owners in Key West.

Both face four counts of conspiracy to commit official misconduct, while Ramsingh faces an additional four counts of official misconduct. This latest development builds on prior indictments against Ramsingh, including an organized fraud charge filed in April 2025 and further misconduct counts in September 2025.

Both men have pleaded not guilty and are awaiting arraignment. State Attorney Dennis Ward emphasized the gravity of the case: “This case underscores the importance of transparency, honesty, and accountability in public office. When a public official abuses their position for personal or financial gain, it erodes the community’s faith in government. Our office, working closely with the FBI, will continue to ensure that those entrusted with public responsibilities uphold the law — not violate it.” The allegations have sparked concern over the integrity of Key West’s building permitting process, critical in a region vulnerable to flooding and hurricanes.

Monroe County enforces strict growth management controls under the Rate of Growth Ordinance to protect infrastructure and the fragile ecosystem of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Any record tampering could have allowed unsafe or non-compliant developments. While city officials have not yet announced specific reforms, the case highlights broader efforts to ensure ethical practices in local governance.

Ramsingh, who previously oversaw the city’s Building Department, was cited in earlier grand jury reports for lapses in oversight.

Heller, a contractor active in the Lower Keys, allegedly benefited directly from the altered records. The FBI’s involvement suggests the case could have wider implications, though no federal charges have been filed. Court proceedings are expected to continue through the fall, with testimony likely to reveal new details about the scope of the alleged scheme. For residents, the indictment serves as a reminder that public accountability remains central to maintaining trust in one of Florida’s most development-sensitive communities.