Osceola County Sheriff Arrested in Gambling Operation Probe, Charged With Racketeering and Conspiracy

Osceola County, located to the west of Brevard, shares a lengthy border with the Space Coast

KISSIMMEE, FLORIDA — Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez was arrested Thursday on first-degree felony charges of racketeering and conspiracy in connection with a widespread illegal gambling operation, state officials announced.

Osceola County, located to the west of Brevard County, shares a lengthy border with the Space Coast.

The arrest follows an investigation by Florida authorities into an alleged gambling ring that operated from the Fusion Social Club, located in a busy tourist area of Kissimmee.

After being elected Osceola County Sheriff in November 2020, officials said Lopez continued to advance the interests of the criminal organization and collected a portion of the illegal gambling proceeds for his involvement.

Court documents reveal the business hosted illicit lottery games, slot machines, and served as a front for illegal betting activities. Investigators say the organization generated over $21.6 million in unlawful profits.

According to a statement from Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, Lopez accepted campaign donations and personal payments in exchange for protecting the illegal enterprise.

“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.

“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.”

Following the arrest, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued an executive order suspending Lopez from office and installed Florida Highway Patrol Central Florida regional chief Christopher Blackmon as interim sheriff.

Blackmon directs FHP Troopers in 13 counties across Central Florida, from Volusia County to Pinellas County.

“This case revealed that Lopez violated the trust and integrity expected of him as the duly elected sheriff of Osceola County,” said Florida Department of Law Enforcement Commissioner Mark Glass.

“As law enforcement, we are held to higher standards of integrity and character than other professions.”

Lopez was booked into the Lake County Jail.

Four others were also charged in connection with the operation, and the investigation is ongoing.

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