NewsTelemundo 51 Miami – Noticias LocalesAugust 19, 2026Miami-Dade
Florida Governor suspends Palm Beach County Clerk Michael Caruso following child sexual abuse charges
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has suspended Palm Beach County Clerk and Comptroller Michael Caruso from office following his arrest on multiple felony charges, including child sexual abuse. A judge has ordered Caruso to remain in custody without bond pending further legal proceedings.
Read the full story at Telemundo 51 Miami – Noticias LocalesWhy It Matters
The suspension of a high-ranking county official impacts the leadership of the Palm Beach County 's office, which manages court records and county finances.
Key Facts
- Michael Caruso is charged with kidnapping, sexual abuse, lewd or lascivious exhibition, enticing or soliciting a minor, and child abuse.
- A judge ordered Caruso to be held without bond.
- Governor Ron DeSantis suspended Caruso from his position as Palm Beach County Clerk and Comptroller.
- The charges involve an alleged victim under the age of 12.
- The alleged abuse reportedly occurred over a two-year period.
- Incidents were reported to have occurred on a cruise ship and in Orange County.
- Caruso previously served seven years in the Florida House of Representatives.
- Caruso's defense attorney stated he intends to defend against the charges and seeks a transfer to Orange County for bond conditions.
Who's Mentioned
locationOrange County“Location where some of the alleged incidents occurred”other67“Age of Michael Caruso.”personMichael Caruso“Former Palm Beach County Clerk and Comptroller and former Florida State Represen”organizationFlorida Department of Law Enforcement“Agency reporting on the charges”locationPalm Beach County“Jurisdiction where Caruso served as Clerk and Comptroller”personRon DeSantis“Governor of Florida who suspended Caruso”personJason S. Weiss“Defense attorney for Michael Caruso”other12“Age of the alleged victim”