A Florida sheriff has been arrested and suspended after authorities said he took money from and protected a massive $21.6 million gambling operation.
Osceola County Sheriff Marcos R. Lopez was arrested on racketeering and conspiracy to commit racketeering charges after a lengthy investigation led by Homeland Security Investigations and joined by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced Thursday.
In 2023, detectives discovered an illegal gambling operation that was operating throughout Central Florida, primarily in Lake and Osceola Counties, and had produced more than $21.6 million in criminal profits.
According to authorities, Lopez initially received campaign contributions and personal payments from the operation, but after being elected Osceola County Sheriff in November 2020, he continued to advance the organization’s interests and received a portion of the illegal gambling proceeds as compensation for his involvement.
He is also accused of using his office to protect the business from law enforcement.
Homeland Security Investigations Tampa later released video of Lopez in detention.
Officials expect other suspects to be issued search warrants in the investigation.
“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,” Uthmeier said in a statement. “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.”
Following Lopez’s arrest, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis suspended him and appointed Christopher A. Blackmon, a Florida Highway Patrol veteran, as Osceola Sheriff.
Don Fisher, Osceola County Manager, issued a statement on Thursday regarding the arrest.
“The Sheriff is a separate constitutional officer, apart from the County or the County Commission, and it’s important to note that the County had no role in this investigation,” the statement read. “However, the County and our Commission stand ready at the helm to support Interim Sheriff Christopher Blackmon and the courageous men and women of the Osceola Sheriff’s Department however we can during this period, as appropriate.”