Just a few years ago, Marcos Lopez made headlines for becoming Osceola County’s first Hispanic sheriff.
But now, instead of leading his community, he’s facing serious criminal charges that could send him to prison for decades.
In a jaw-dropping turn of events, Lopez was arrested and led away in handcuffs on charges of running a multi-million-dollar illegal gambling empire—while still wearing the badge meant to protect the public.
Sheriff Accused of Running a Gambling Network
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier didn’t mince words when announcing the charges.
He said Lopez had taken advantage of the public’s trust, using his power to protect and expand an underground gambling operation that reportedly pulled in over $21.6 million.
According to prosecutors, Lopez played a “multifaceted role” in shielding the operation, even allegedly receiving secret payments and campaign donations as part of the scheme.
He’s now charged with two serious first-degree felonies: racketeering and conspiracy to commit racketeering.
From Navy Reservist to Sheriff—and Now an Inmate
Lopez’s story had all the makings of the American dream.
Born in Chicago and raised in Central Florida, he joined the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office in 2003 while also serving in the Navy Reserve.
He eventually worked his way up the ranks, earning a degree in criminal justice and taking office as sheriff in 2021.
He was re-elected in 2024, but his second term barely began before a massive investigation started closing in.
Now, instead of patrolling the streets, he’s sitting in Lake County Jail without bond, awaiting an arraignment hearing set for June 30.
The Arrest Caught on Camera
On Wednesday morning, federal agents from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), with backup from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), arrested Lopez.
A video shared by HSI Tampa shows the moment they approached him.
“What is this about?” Lopez asked—before being handcuffed and taken away.
Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin made it clear that no one is above the law, saying, “Under President Trump and Secretary Noem, public officials must be held accountable.”
Governor DeSantis Responds Immediately
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis wasted no time reacting.
He suspended Lopez from office and appointed Christopher Blackmon, a 35-year law enforcement veteran from the Florida Highway Patrol, as interim sheriff.
Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd didn’t hold back in his assessment of the situation.
“He has embarrassed himself, his family, and the great men and women who work at the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office,” Judd said, calling Lopez’s behavior “outrageous, unprofessional, and obviously corrupt.”
A Pattern of Scandal
This isn’t the first time Lopez’s name has made headlines for the wrong reasons.
Earlier this year, he and four deputies were named in a civil lawsuit stemming from a disturbing 2022 incident.
A man was tackled by deputies at a gas station, suffering burns over 75% of his body. That case is still ongoing.
Attorney Mark NeJame, a long-time critic of Lopez, wasn’t surprised by the new charges.
“It’s terrible when public officials are accused of crimes,” he said. “Sadly, I can’t say I’m shocked.”
The Bigger Picture of Corruption
According to prosecutors, Lopez’s alleged gambling empire ran illegal slot machines and lotteries across Lake and Osceola Counties.
Investigators say the sheriff not only protected the operation—he actively helped it grow after taking office in 2021.
FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass stressed the gravity of the breach, saying, “As law enforcement, we are held to higher standards. This case revealed Lopez betrayed that trust.”
More Arrests Could Be Coming
Authorities say this investigation is far from over.
With more arrests likely, the full extent of the gambling ring—and who else may be involved—is still unfolding.
Meanwhile, Osceola County Manager Don Fisher emphasized that the county wasn’t part of the investigation but stands ready to support Interim Sheriff Blackmon and the department through this challenging time.
A Community Left Reeling
In the aftermath of the arrest, Kissimmee Mayor Jackie Espinosa and City Manager Mike Steigerwald went live on Facebook to address residents.
Espinosa called it “an unsettling moment” for the community.
Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood added his voice to the growing concern: “These allegations, if true, are incredibly serious.
They undermine the honor of every officer who wears the badge with pride.”
What Happens Next
Sheriff Marcos Lopez now faces a future that looks nothing like the one he once promised voters.
With charges this serious and a trial looming, his story serves as a sobering reminder that power, when abused, can bring even the most celebrated leaders to a devastating end.