ORLANDO, Fla. – A Central Florida sheriff was arrested on Thursday and accused in a “massive Central Florida illegal gambling operation” and “public corruption scheme,” Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced.
“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 wrote on X.
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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 (@AGJamesUthmeier) June 5, 2025
However, the law must be applied equally, regardless of position, power, or branch of… pic.twitter.com/xXfkvl9v1k
Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez is accused of one count of racketeering and one count of conspiracy to commit racketeering, first-degree felonies. He was taken to the Lake County Jail, WKMG reported.
DeSantis suspended Lopez from office with an executive order and appointed Christopher A. Blackmon, the Central Florida regional chief for the Florida Highway Patrol.
More information about the case is expected to be released soon.
“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,” Uthmeier said.
Lopez has been with the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office for more than two decades. He was sworn into office as sheriff in 2021, becoming the first Hispanic sheriff in the state of Florida. He was re-elected in November.
