ORANGE COUNTY, FL – Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez was arrested Thursday morning and is facing charges of racketeering and conspiracy to commit racketeering.

Key Insights:

• Arrest and Charges – Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez was arrested and booked into the Lake County Jail. He faces charges of racketeering and conspiracy to commit racketeering, both first-degree felonies.
• Alleged Illegal Gambling Operation – The charges stem from an alleged ‘massive illegal gambling operation’ that prosecutors say generated over $21.6 million in illicit proceeds. Lopez is accused of using his office to protect and expand this enterprise for campaign contributions and personal payments.
• Suspension and Replacement – Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued an executive order suspending Sheriff Lopez from office. Christopher A. Blackmon, Central Region Chief for the Florida Highway Patrol, has been appointed as interim Sheriff for Osceola County.

The arrest of Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez on Thursday has sent ripples through Florida’s law enforcement community, as he faces serious allegations tied to a significant illegal enterprise.

What Led to Sheriff Lopez’s Arrest?

Multiple law enforcement sources confirmed that Sheriff Lopez’s arrest is the culmination of an extended investigation by federal and state authorities, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). Sources indicate that statewide prosecutors have been working with investigators for several months based on information received, leading to a warrant for Lopez’s arrest. Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody’s office stated the charges are related to a “massive illegal gambling operation.” Prosecutors allege Lopez “played a multifaceted role in expanding and protecting this illegal enterprise, using his office to shield the enterprise from law enforcement” in exchange for campaign contributions and personal payments. The operation is said to have generated more than $21.6 million in illicit proceeds and primarily operated in Lake and Osceola counties.

What are the Specific Charges and Immediate Consequences?

Sheriff Lopez has been charged with one count of racketeering, a first-degree felony under section 895.03(3), Florida Statutes, and one count of conspiracy to commit racketeering, also a first-degree felony under section 895.03(4), Florida Statutes. Following the arrest, Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 25-121, immediately suspending Lopez from his position as Sheriff of Osceola County. The order cites the felony charges as the grounds for suspension. Lopez was booked into the Lake County Jail, and his next court date is reportedly set for June 30.

Who is Taking Over and What Are Officials Saying?

Governor DeSantis has appointed Christopher A. Blackmon to fill the position of Sheriff for Osceola County for the duration of Lopez’s suspension. Blackmon is the Central Region Chief for the Florida Highway Patrol and a 35-year law enforcement veteran.

Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody stated, “This is a solemn day for Florida and our law enforcement community…Public servants should never exploit the public’s trust for personal gain.” FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass added, “This case revealed that Lopez violated the trust and integrity expected of him as the duly elected sheriff of Osceola County.”

Orlando trial attorney Mark NeJame, who has previously filed suit against Lopez, commented, “Sadly, I cannot state that I’m surprised with this recent allegation.” Osceola County officials clarified that the County had no role in the investigation and expressed readiness to support Interim Sheriff Blackmon. The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office has not yet issued a public statement regarding Lopez’s arrest. Sheriff Lopez was reelected in 2024 for a four-year term.

Read Governor DeSantis’ decree here (flgov.com)