TALLAHASSEE, Fla.— The Office of Statewide Prosecution, led by Attorney General James Uthmeier, has charged Osceola County Sheriff Marcos R. Lopez in connection with a significant illegal gambling operation in Central Florida. Sheriff Lopez is accused of using his position to support and protect the enterprise from law enforcement actions.
“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,” stated Attorney General James Uthmeier. “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.”
John Condon, Special Agent in Charge at Homeland Security Investigations Tampa emphasized that “Today’s arrest underscores HSI’s commitment to holding everyone, including public officials, accountable. No one, regardless of their position, is above the law.” He added that corruption undermines public trust and that HSI is dedicated to addressing it.
FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass commented on the case: “As law enforcement, we are held to higher standards of integrity and character than other professions. This case revealed that Lopez violated the trust and integrity expected of him as the duly elected sheriff of Osceola County.” He expressed gratitude towards agents and analysts who collaborated on this investigation with HSI and the Office of Statewide Prosecution.
The investigation began in 2023 under Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) with cooperation from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). It uncovered a criminal organization operating an illegal gambling business across Central Florida counties such as Lake and Osceola. The operation reportedly generated over $21.6 million in illegal proceeds.
Since being elected as Osceola County Sheriff in November 2020, Lopez allegedly continued supporting this criminal organization while receiving a share of its profits. Additional arrests related to this case are anticipated soon.
Sheriff Lopez faces charges including racketeering and conspiracy to commit racketeering. Senior Assistant Statewide Prosecutors Colleen Monroe and Panagiota Papakos will handle prosecution efforts within Florida’s Fifth Judicial Circuit.
The investigation remains active; further charges may follow.
