OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. (CBS12) — A Florida sheriff, entrusted to uphold the law, now faces serious charges linked to a sprawling illegal gambling operation.
Osceola County Sheriff Marcos R. Lopez was charged Thursday by Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier’s Office of Statewide Prosecution with racketeering and conspiracy to commit racketeering.
According to prosecutors, Lopez initially became involved in the criminal enterprise to secure campaign contributions and personal payments. However, he later played a central role in expanding and protecting the illegal gambling network, leveraging his office to shield the operation from law enforcement scrutiny.
“This is a solemn day for Florida and our law enforcement community,” Attorney General Uthmeier said. “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.”
The criminal enterprise was uncovered in 2023 during investigations by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). The operation spanned Central Florida, with heavy activity in Lake and Osceola counties, generating more than $21.6 million in illicit proceeds.
Despite being elected Osceola County Sheriff in November 2020, Lopez allegedly continued advancing the gang’s interests while collecting a portion of its illegal profits.
Attorney General Uthmeier noted that additional arrests are expected in connection with the case in the coming days.
