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.
Also named as suspects in the gambling operation are Carol Cote, Sharon Fedrick, Sheldon Wetherholt, and Ying Zhang. Cote and Fedrick are reportedly in custody, while Wetherholt and Zhang remain at-large.
Flagler & Volusia Sheriffs React
“This is a sad day for all law enforcement across the state with the arrest of such a high-ranking official,” said Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly. “While I do not have any direct knowledge of the circumstances surrounding this case, I firmly believe in due process and trust the legal system will take its proper course. He will have his day in court.”
“I was very disappointed to learn of the arrest of Osceola County’s sheriff,” added Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood. “The allegations, if true, are extremely serious and disturbing and undermine the honor and integrity of every law enforcement officer who wears the badge. “I don’t know all the details of the investigation, but the allegations released at this point represent a betrayal of the most basic tenets of law enforcement leadership.”
Chris Gollon is a Flagler County resident since 2004, as well as a staple of the local independent music scene and avid observer of Central Florida politics, arts, and recreation.
