TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Gov. Ron DeSantis has suspended a central Florida sheriff from his office after he was arrested Thursday morning.
In an executive order, the governor wrote that Osceola Sheriff Marcos Lopez was charged with racketeering and conspiracy to commit racketeering.
“Marcos R. Lopez is hereby prohibited from performing any official act, duty, or function of public office; from receiving any pay or allowance; from being entitled to any of the emoluments or privileges of public office during the period of this suspension, which period shall be from the effective date hereof, until a further executive order is issued, or as otherwise provided by law,” DeSantis’ order stated.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier said the charges stem from Lopez’s involvement in “a massive Central Florida gambling operation.”
Initially, the Attorney General’s Office indicated that Lopez was involved in orchestrating efforts to secure campaign contributions and personal payments. However, it was later found that he utilized the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office to shield the gambling business from law enforcement scrutiny.
According to prosecutors, following his election in 2020, Lopez sustained his collaboration with the criminal organization and received a share of the profits in exchange for his participation.
“This is a solemn day for Florida and our law enforcement community. We put great trust in our constitutional officers, especially those who are our communities’ first line of defense.” Attorney General James Uthmeier said. “However, the law must be applied equally, regardless of position, power, or branch of government. Public servants should never exploit the public’s trust for personal gain. Our Statewide Prosecutors will hold Sheriff Lopez, his associates, and all lawbreakers accountable.”
According to Uthmeier, Homeland Security Investigations, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and other agencies discovered the gambling operation, largely based in Lake and Osceola counties, in 2023.
Prosecutors said the organization made over $21.6 million in illegal earnings.
“As law enforcement, we are held to higher standards of integrity and character than other professions. This case revealed that Lopez violated the trust and integrity expected of him as the duly elected sheriff of Osceola County,” said FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass. “Florida’s sheriffs are leaders for not only their office and deputies, but for their community and the citizens that elected them. I want to thank our agents and analysts who worked diligently on this case with HSI and the Office of Statewide Prosecution to make sure that law enforcement officers are held to the standards expected of them.”
Other arrests are expected in the coming days, according to the attorney general’s office.
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