DeSantis Appointee Michael Caruso Arrested on 5 Felony Charges, Allegedly Abused His Own Grandson

Описание: Palm Beach County Clerk of Court Michael Caruso, a former Republican state lawmaker and staunch Gov. Ron DeSantis ally, was arrested this week on charges tied to the alleged sexual abuse of his own grandson. Caruso faces five felony counts including kidnapping, lewd or lascivious molestation, lewd or lascivious exhibition, luring or enticing a child, and child abuse causing mental injury.

According to the arrest affidavit, the alleged abuse occurred during a family cruise Caruso paid for in August 2025, for which he had purchased ten tickets for relatives. Caruso allegedly threatened his own son when confronted about the abuse, warning there wouldn't be "any of him left" if reported to authorities.

Governor DeSantis immediately suspended Caruso from office and has publicly acknowledged that Caruso's background was vetted with no red flags found before his 2025 appointment. Caruso was denied bond at his first court appearance and remains held in Orange County Jail, with his next court date set for September 2.

Republicans face an August 27 deadline to name a replacement candidate, or Caruso's name and votes will remain tied to the November ballot for the office he is now barred from holding. Caruso's attorney maintains his client is innocent and intends to fight the charges.

📚 Sources:
👉 The Spokesman-Review (Associated Press wire)
👉 WLRN Public Media
👉 CBS12 News (WPEC)
👉 WFLX Fox 29

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