Osceola County Sheriff Charged in $21.6 Million Illegal Gambling Scheme

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Osceola County Sheriff Marcos R. Lopez was arrested and charged on June 5, 2025, with racketeering and conspiracy to commit racketeering, both first-degree felonies, for his alleged role in a massive Central Florida illegal gambling operation that generated over $21.6 million in illicit proceeds.

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced the charges, filed by the Office of Statewide Prosecution, accusing Lopez of exploiting his position to protect and expand the criminal enterprise in exchange for campaign contributions and personal payments.

“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.” said Attorney General James Uthmeier in a release .

“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.”

Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 25-121 on June 5, 2025, suspending Lopez from office under Article IV, Section 7 of the Florida Constitution. Christopher A. Blackmon was appointed interim sheriff, effective immediately, to serve during Lopez’s suspension.

The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office quickly removed any reference to Lopez from its Facebook cover photo Thursday afternoon.

Lopez began his career with the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office in 2003 while serving in the Navy Reserve and after obtaining an associate degree in criminal justice.

Lopez was sworn in on January 5, 2021, on the steps of Osceola County’s Historic Courthouse. He made history by becoming the first Hispanic Sheriff in the county.