Florida Sheriff Arrested in $21 Million Illegal Gambling Ring

Central Florida sheriff Marcos Lopez, 44, was hauled away in handcuffs over charges he orchestrated a massive illegal gambling operation raking in millions of dollars in the process

Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez was arrested and taken into custody over allegations that he orchestrated a sprawling illegal gambling operation that generated more than $21.6 million in illicit revenue. The 44-year-old sheriff is accused of using his position to protect and profit from the criminal enterprise, marking a dramatic fall from grace for Florida’s first Hispanic sheriff in the county.

Lopez, once seen as a rising figure in Florida law enforcement, now faces two first-degree felony charges: racketeering and conspiracy to commit racketeering. Prosecutors say he played a "multifaceted role" in shielding and expanding the gambling network, accepting campaign donations and secret payments in exchange for protection.

Lopez is accused of wielding his badge to shield a sprawling illegal gambling empire that prosecutors say raked in more than $21.6 million in dirty money

The operation reportedly involved unlicensed lotteries and slot machines distributed throughout Lake and Osceola Counties. The investigation, which began in 2023, exposed what officials call a deeply entrenched culture of corruption within the sheriff’s department.

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier issued a strong rebuke of Lopez’s actions, calling it a "solemn day for Florida" and emphasizing the betrayal of public trust. “Public servants should never exploit the public’s trust for personal gain,” he said.

Posecutors say the sheriff played a 'multifaceted role' in expanding and protecting the illicit operation, personally benefiting through campaign contributions and secret payments

The scandal came to light on Wednesday morning when Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents, alongside the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), arrested Lopez. In a video released by HSI Tampa, agents approach Lopez, who asks, “What is this about?” before being handcuffed and led away.

Lopez is currently being held without bond in Lake County Jail. His arraignment is scheduled for June 30. If convicted, he faces decades in prison.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis acted swiftly by signing an executive order to suspend Lopez from office. DeSantis appointed Florida Highway Patrol Central Region Chief Christopher Blackmon, a 35-year veteran of law enforcement, as interim sheriff.

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd condemned Lopez’s conduct, calling it “outrageous, unprofessional, and obviously corrupt.” Longtime legal critic Mark NeJame added, “It’s terrible when any public official is accused of crimes and compromising the very people and laws they are sworn to protect.”

Lopez was born in Chicago and raised in Central Florida. He originally joined the US military when he was only 17 and completed 22 years of service. He is a also a dad to three children

Lopez’s arrest is not his only controversy. He and four deputies are also named in a civil lawsuit connected to a 2022 incident where a man sustained burns over 75 percent of his body after being tackled by deputies at a gas station. Attorneys involved in that case say the racketeering charges confirm a “deeply rooted culture of unlawful behavior” within the sheriff’s department.

FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass emphasized the broader damage caused by Lopez’s alleged actions, saying, “This case revealed that Lopez violated the trust and integrity expected of him as the duly elected sheriff.”

Local officials are working to maintain stability. Osceola County Manager Don Fisher stated that while the County was not involved in the investigation, it stands ready to support Interim Sheriff Blackmon. Kissimmee Mayor Jackie Espinosa and City Manager Mike Steigerwald addressed residents via Facebook Live, describing the moment as “unsettling” for the community.

Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood echoed the concern: “The allegations, if true, are extremely serious and disturbing, and undermine the honor and integrity of every law enforcement officer who wears the badge.”

Investigators indicate that additional arrests are expected as they continue to uncover the full extent of the criminal enterprise.