Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez Arrested in Major Illegal Gambling and Corruption Case

In a stunning development shaking Central Florida’s law enforcement community, Osceola County Sheriff Marcos R. Lopez was arrested Thursday morning on charges of racketeering and conspiracy to commit racketeering. The arrest follows a multi-agency investigation into a sprawling illegal gambling operation that allegedly generated over $21.6 million in illicit proceeds across Lake and Osceola counties.

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced the charges, stating that Sheriff Lopez used his elected position to shield and expand the criminal enterprise in exchange for personal payments and campaign contributions. “Public servants should never exploit the public’s trust for personal gain,” Uthmeier emphasized. “The law must be applied equally, regardless of position, power, or branch of government” .

The investigation, led by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), revealed that Sheriff Lopez played a central role in protecting the illegal gambling network from law enforcement scrutiny. FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass remarked, “This case revealed that Lopez violated the trust and integrity expected of him as the duly elected sheriff of Osceola County” .

Following the arrest, Governor Ron DeSantis suspended Lopez from his duties and appointed Christopher A. Blackmon, a 35-year law enforcement veteran and Central Region Chief for the Florida Highway Patrol, as interim sheriff.

The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities indicating that additional arrests and charges may follow. This case underscores the commitment of Florida’s law enforcement agencies to uphold integrity and accountability within their ranks.

Suspended Felon Commissioner Regina Hill Still Breaking the Law

Headline: Suspended Felon Commissioner Regina Hill Still Breaking the Law

By Orlando Politics Observer Staff

Why does Regina Hill continue to break the law?

Despite being indicted on multiple felony charges — including elderly exploitation and mortgage fraud — suspended Orlando City Commissioner Regina Hill appears to be at it again, this time violating Florida election law.

On June 24, 2024, a special election was held in Orlando’s District 5 due to Hill’s criminal indictment. Voters elected Shan Rose as their new Commissioner. Rose, now the duly elected and serving incumbent, is currently running for re-election — and she has every legal right to say so. U

But in a troubling twist, campaign literature and videos connected to Hill have surfaced using the phrase: “Re-Elect Regina Hill .” While the endorsement may appear harmless at first glance, it’s a direct violation of Florida election law if Hill is behind it — and there’s reason to believe she is.

According to Florida Statute 106.143(6):

“No political advertisement of a candidate who is not an incumbent of the office for which the candidate is running shall use the word re-elect.”

The statute is clear. The term re-elect is legally reserved for current officeholders running to keep their seat. Regina Hill though a Suspended City Commisioner,  is not an incumbent in the current race — and the use of “re-elect” on any materials associated with him violates Florida law.

The use of this language, especially by a figure already removed from office for unethical and possibly criminal conduct, raises serious questions. Why is Regina Hill, who has already brought disgrace to her office, continuing to disregard the law and mislead voters?

It’s worth remembering: Hill was suspended not over politics, but over facts and evidence. The charges against her are not minor — they involve exploitation of an elderly woman and improper use of that woman’s finances, allegedly for Hill’s personal benefit.

Now, while under indictment, Hill appears to be back in the political shadows — this time using campaign materials to mislead the public and improperly insert herself back into District 5 politics.

With voters already having spoken clearly in electing Shan Rose, the community must remain vigilant against further attempts to manipulate or violate the democratic process.

For more updates on Orlando elections, visit Orlando Politics Observer.

Why’s Is the Focus on Sandra Lewis and Judge Andrew Bain—When Regina Hill Is Under Indictment?

By Orlando Political Observer

In recent weeks, headlines and political whispers have zeroed in on judicial candidate Judge Andrew Bain and Sandra Lewis.  But as their names trend in conversations and courtrooms alike, a deeper question remains: Why is the focus shifting to a political campaign when Regina Hill, an elected city commissioner, is under felony indictment for exploiting an elderly woman? Sandra Lewis

The case against Regina Hill is anything but speculative. According to public records, Hill is accused of illegally gaining access to the finances of an elderly constituent, Ms. Curtis, and subsequently using those funds for personal purchases and lifestyle expenses.

This isn’t just hearsay or a political smear — the case contains electronic receipts and documentation that allegedly show Hill becoming Ms. Curtis’ fiscal agent without legitimate justification, followed by a trail of self-enriching transactions. These include the alleged purchase of clothing, rent payments, and other personal expenses — none of which benefited the woman she was legally entrusted to help.

What’s perhaps more alarming is who is (and isn’t) prosecuting the case. The Orange County State Attorney’s Office has stepped aside, and the case is now in the hands of the Florida Office of Statewide Prosecution — an extraordinary move that suggests the state is treating this case with a higher degree of seriousness than your average local corruption scandal.

And yet, despite the mounting evidence, public attention is being deflected toward Judge Bain’s re-election and attorney Sandra Lewis’ judicial ambitions — as if a heated campaign can serve as a distraction from a very real and pressing abuse-of-power case.

Critics are asking: Why is a high-powered attorney focusing fire on a political race instead of addressing the substantive legal charges facing an elected official? Are these distractions intended to sway public focus ahead of deeper legal developments in Hill’s case?

While elections matter — and judicial candidates should be vetted — they should not become a smokescreen for more urgent issues, especially when those issues involve elder abuse, fiduciary misconduct, and the public’s trust in elected leaders.

The people of Orlando deserve transparency — not political sleight of hand. The indictment against Regina Hill is not about politics. It’s about justice for a vulnerable resident and accountability for those who serve in public office.

Stay tuned. We’ll be watching — and reporting.

— Orlando Political Observer

www.orlando-politics.com

SEIU Florida Public Services Union Endorses Shan Rose for Orlando City Council District 5

ENDORSEMENT ALERT 🚨

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

Orlando, FL – Shan Rose, candidate for Orlando City Council District 5, is proud to announce the endorsement of SEIU Florida Public Services Union, representing thousands of public service professionals across the state.

“I am truly humbled and honored to receive the endorsement of SEIU Florida Public Services Union,” said Rose. “These are the professionals who keep our City Beautiful running each and every day. Their trust means everything, and I look forward to continuing to be a champion for the issues that impact their work, their families, and our community.”

With a strong record of advocating for workers’ rights, city improvements, and community equity, Shan Rose has proven her commitment to the people who make Orlando thrive. This endorsement is another sign of growing support from organizations and residents who believe in her leadership.

Let’s keep the momentum going. #D5 #TheRealWorkBegins #Community #StickToTheAssignment #KeepShanRoseWorkingForYou

Mayra Uribe To Run For Mayor Of Orange County

Orlando, FL (May 8, 2025) – Mayra Uribe, known for being a hands-on, prepared, and responsive member of the OrangeCounty Commission since 2018, today announced she is running for Orange County Mayor.

Uribe announced that the Orange County Sheriff’s Fraternal Order of Police and the Orange County Corrections Fraternal Order of Police have also proudly extended their “full and united endorsement” of Uribe’s campaign for Orange County Mayor.

“I am excited to share with you that I am running for Orange County Mayor,” said Uribe, announcing her campaign to family, friends, and supporters at Cypress Grove Park.

Uribe shared news about the two FOP endorsements, thanking both organizations for their endorsement on the first day of the campaign, noting, “They are our everyday heroes.”

Continuing, Uribe said she believes Orange County is on the cusp of exciting change. “With this campaign, we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to realign local politics around bold leadership, practical solutions, and people-first priorities.

“Voters in our county are disillusioned with partisan gridlock and empty promises,” Uribe told the group. “They’re looking for a mayor who can deliver real results, protect what’s special about Central Florida, and prepare the region for generational challenges — from affordability to resilience.

Uribe assured her audience, “I’m not here today as a politician. I’m here as a wife and mother, as your neighbor who believes that common sense and bold action can and will change lives.

“Orange County is blossoming,” promised Uribe. Her priorities are better-paying jobs and more attainable housing, clean growth and smarter transportation, safe and stronger communities, a better Orange County government, and an Orange County future that belongs to everyone.

-more-

“This campaign is about all of us, not just the loudest voices or the wealthiest donors,” said Uribe. “We will build a coalition of working families, small business owners, young leaders, retirees, and everyday people tired of waiting and ready to lead.

“We’re not here to tear anyone down but to lift everyone up,” pledged Uribe.  “Orange County doesn’t belong to one party, class, or zip code. It belongs to all of us.

“We’ve had enough slogans and spin. We deserve leadership in the years ahead that puts people over politics and results over rhetoric. Every decision I make as mayor will ask: Does this help families, workers, and neighborhoods in Orange County thrive?

“You can bet we’re not here to defend the status quo.  So, if you think we need local government that acts faster, listens better, and works harder … if you believe, like I do, our best days are still ahead, not behind us … then I’m asking you to join me.

“This isn’t a pipe dream,” concluded Uribe. “It’s a blueprint.

“Let’s be the county that doesn’t wait for the future.  Let’s rise up!

“We can build it. We will build it. And we will build it together.”

###

Shan Rose Receives Major Endorsement from Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association

ORLANDO, FL – Shan Rose, candidate for Orlando’s City Council District 5, has secured a major endorsement from the Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association (CFHLA), a powerful voice in the region’s hospitality and tourism industry. This endorsement underscores Rose’s commitment to economic growth, job creation, and community development—key issues that resonate with both residents and local businesses.

The CFHLA, one of the largest and most influential hospitality trade organizations in the country, represents over 80% of the hotel industry in Central Florida. Their endorsement signals confidence in Rose’s leadership, vision, and dedication to policies that support Orlando’s vital tourism economy while prioritizing the needs of local workers and families.

Shan Rose Receives Major Endorsement from Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association

ORLANDO, FL – Shan Rose, candidate for Orlando’s City Council District 5, has secured a major endorsement from the Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association (CFHLA), a powerful voice in the region’s hospitality and tourism industry. This endorsement underscores Rose’s commitment to economic growth, job creation, and community development—key issues that resonate with both residents and local businesses.

The CFHLA, one of the largest and most influential hospitality trade organizations in the country, represents over 80% of the hotel industry in Central Florida. Their endorsement signals confidence in Rose’s leadership, vision, and dedication to policies that support Orlando’s vital tourism economy while prioritizing the needs of local workers and families.

“I am honored to receive the endorsement of the Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association,” said Rose. “Orlando’s hospitality industry is the backbone of our local economy, and I am committed to working with business leaders, hotel employees, and community members to ensure we continue to grow while maintaining affordable housing, public safety, and infrastructure improvements.”

Rose, who has built her campaign on integrity, transparency, and accessibility, has gained momentum in recent weeks as she continues to advocate for smart development, workforce opportunities, and responsible leadership in City Hall. With the CFHLA backing her candidacy, she strengthens her position as a pro-business, pro-community candidate who understands the economic realities of Orlando’s workforce.

The endorsement from CFHLA adds to a growing list of supporters rallying behind Rose in what is expected to be a highly competitive race. As Election Day approaches, her campaign continues to focus on engaging with voters, addressing key issues, and ensuring that all voices in District 5 are heard.

 

Congressman Fine Accuses Governor DeSantis of Targeting Jewish Lawmakers

In a recent development within Florida’s Republican circles, newly elected Congressman Randy Fine has suggested that Governor Ron DeSantis’s recent criticisms of him and State Representative Hillary Cassel may be influenced by their Jewish heritage. This assertion adds a new dimension to the ongoing political discourse in the state.

During an exclusive interview with The Floridian, Rep. Fine addressed Governor DeSantis’s recent remarks about Rep. Cassel, who transitioned from the Democratic to the Republican Party. Fine questioned the rationale behind DeSantis’s critique, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity within the party. He noted that Cassel’s switch was motivated by her Jewish identity and concerns over the Democratic Party’s stance on Israel, speculating that this might have unsettled DeSantis.

Expressing concern over the pattern of targeting, Fine stated, “I do find it troubling that two politicians in Florida that he has chosen to take issue with in a very vitriolic way the last few weeks are both Jewish.” He further suggested that DeSantis’s political trajectory might be influencing his recent actions, remarking on the governor’s reliance on former President Donald Trump’s support during his gubernatorial campaign.

Governor DeSantis has previously criticized Fine, labeling him as a “squish” and attributing his congressional win primarily to Trump’s endorsement rather than personal merit. DeSantis remarked, “I would not read into the underperformance that this is somehow a referendum on MAGA or Trump. I think it was a unique issue with this particular candidate.”

This exchange underscores the escalating tensions within Florida’s Republican Party, highlighting the complex interplay of personal backgrounds, party dynamics, and political allegiances.

🚨🐀 Is Regina Hill Cooperating with the Government?

For months, questions have swirled about embattled Orlando City Commissioner Regina Hill and the nature of her legal troubles. After her arrest, reports surfaced that authorities seized her phone and have been scouring its contents. If true, this raises significant concerns: What secrets lie within? What shady deals could be uncovered? And more importantly—why hasn’t she gone to trial yet?

The Delays: A Legal Strategy or Something More?

Hill’s high-priced attorney has consistently pushed back her trial date, leaving many wondering what’s behind the repeated delays. Typically, when a defendant stalls a trial, it’s either to build a stronger defense—or to negotiate a deal. Given the federal government’s track record, when they have access to a defendant’s personal communications, it usually spells trouble for more than just the person on trial.

Could it be that Regina Hill is working with prosecutors, providing information in exchange for a lighter sentence? This wouldn’t be the first time a public official facing serious charges decided to cooperate. Federal investigators love flipping insiders to go after bigger fish.

What’s in That Phone?

Regina Hill has long been rumored to be involved in backdoor deals, questionable contracts, and leveraging her political position for personal gain. If her phone indeed holds incriminating evidence, it could expose not just her but also a network of political allies, donors, and business partners who may have benefited from her influence.

If Hill were truly innocent or confident in her defense, she would likely want a swift trial to clear her name. But the longer the delays, the more speculation grows that she is cooperating with the authorities.

Who Could Be Next?

If Hill has cut a deal, who is she giving up? Orlando politics has no shortage of questionable figures, from developers with deep pockets to city insiders who know how the system works. If federal investigators are leveraging Hill for information, they may be preparing a larger corruption case that could shake Orlando’s political establishment.

The Bottom Line

While there’s no confirmed proof that Regina Hill is cooperating with the government, the pattern of delays, the seized phone, and the high stakes suggest that something is happening behind the scenes. The real question is: If Hill is talking, who else should be worried? Orlando’s political landscape could be on the verge of a major shake-up.

Stay tuned for more

Is Regina Hill Trying to Take Your Money?

Regina Hill is back in the news, and it doesn’t look good. She has just filed to run for office again, but some people are asking questions. Why? Because she still has to go to court for charges about exploiting a 96-year-old woman.

Last year, Hill was accused of exploiting and stealing from the elderly woman. That case hasn’t been resolved yet. She has a court date this month and next month, with her trial set for May. This means she could be facing serious trouble.

People say Hill has a long history of problems with the law. Some even call her a “career criminal.” Now, some wonder if she is running for office just to get money. Voters should watch closely to see what happens next. 

**Orlando Political Observer Offers $1,000 Reward: Who is Paying for Regina Hill’s Million-Dollar Defense?

The Orlando Political Observer has been silent on the subject for a while, but now it’s time to address the million-dollar question swirling around Orlando politics: who is footing the bill for suspended Commissioner Regina Hill’s high-profile legal defense?

Hill has recently retained the services of Fritz Scheller, a well-known attorney in Florida’s legal circles, whose reputation is on par with that of Jose Baez and Mark Nejame. According to Scheller’s assistant, his going rate is $400 per hour—a price tag that certainly isn’t cheap. Legal experts we spoke with estimate that this defense could end up costing Hill somewhere in the range of $500,000, potentially even more.

So, the question remains: who is paying for this high-powered defense? Is it Developer A, Developer B, or perhaps a completely different benefactor? Or could Hill be drawing from her own personal savings? The latter seems unlikely, given that Hill herself stated on a Facebook Live stream that she is currently homeless. The irony is not lost on us: how does one claim homelessness and yet afford a defense that costs more than what most people earn in a decade?

In an effort to get to the bottom of this mystery, the Orlando Political Observer is offering a $1,000 reward to anyone who can provide verifiable proof of who is actually covering these legal fees. If you have credible information, you can come forward knowing that your identity will be kept strictly confidential.

This reward is being offered solely by the Orlando Political Observer Group LLC. The reason is simple: taxpayers deserve to know the truth. This is about transparency and accountability, and about making sure public figures are not misleading the very people they are supposed to serve.

So, if you have the information that could solve this puzzle, get in touch. It’s time for Orlando’s citizens to learn a valuable lesson about who really pays the price in the world of politics. Contact doug@orlandopolitics.com