Republican faces child sex charges
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Palm Beach County Clerk Michael Caruso, 67, faces five felony child sex charges. He was suspended by DeSantis and could face death penalty under Florida law.
Background
Michael Caruso, a Republican and former state legislator, was appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis as Palm Beach County Clerk of Court in August 2025. He was arrested on August 18, 2026, on charges including kidnapping, child molestation, and luring a child. The case has drawn attention because Caruso previously voted to expand the death penalty for child sex crimes, and now he himself could face that penalty.
How it unfolded
- Aug 18, 2026Caruso was arrested on five felony counts related to child sexual abuse. DeSantis issued an executive order suspending him from office.
- Aug 18, 2026Caruso appeared in court and was held without bond pending extradition to Orange County. He was ordered to have no contact with the victim or minors.
- Aug 19, 2026Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier said the investigation remains open and more charges are expected. DeSantis commented on the case, noting the possibility of the death penalty.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Governor DeSantis suspended Caruso and said his office vetted him before appointment, but nothing came up.
- Prosecution
- Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier said the investigation is ongoing and more charges are expected.
- Public
- The Florida GOP called on Caruso to immediately drop out of the race, and staff expressed surprise at the news.
Still unverified
Court documents reveal Caruso made threatening statements to his family, saying 'If you tell anyone I will get arrested. I will just go away.' These are allegations in court documents and not yet proven.