Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez was arrested Thursday in connection to what’s being called a large-scale gambling operation. The arrest comes after a lengthy investigation by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).
Lopez was arrested at 10:00 pm in Orlando by FDLE officers, and booked into the Lake County jail later that evening. He’s charged with racketeering and conspiracy to commit racketeering, both second degree felonies. He’s been said to have been involved in a large-scale illegal gambling operation, ultimately culminating in his arrest.
State Government Takes Action
“This is a solemn day for Florida and our law enforcement community,” said Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier. “We put great trust in our constitutional officers, especially those who are our communities’ first line of defense. 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.”
Already Gov. Ron DeSantis has issued an executive order suspending Sheriff Lopez from office, replacing him with Florida Highway Patrol Commander Christopher Blackmon. Lopez was elected as Osceola County’s 20th sheriff in November with 57.5% of the vote. Prior to serving as Osceola County Sheriff, Lopez has worked within the department since 2003. He has also served in the U.S. Navy Reserve…