Governor DeSantis suspends Palm Beach County Clerk Michael Caruso following felony arrest

The suspension of the Clerk of Court changes the leadership of a key county office responsible for maintaining court records and financial operations, with Shannon Ramsey-Chessman assuming the role indefinitely.

• •Michael Caruso was arrested on five felony charges: kidnapping, lewd or lascivious molestation, lewd or lascivious exhibition, luring or enticing a child, and child abuse causing mental injury.
• •Governor Ron DeSantis suspended Caruso from his position as Palm Beach County Clerk of Court effective immediately.
• •Shannon Ramsey-Chessman, previously the Chief of Staff and Chief Deputy Clerk, was sworn in as clerk ad interim.
• •Caruso is being held at the Orange County Jail without bond pending his first appearance.
• •The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is overseeing the transition to ensure no records are removed from the clerk's office.
• •Caruso was originally appointed to the clerk position by Governor DeSantis in August 2025.
• •Caruso served seven years in the Florida House of Representatives prior to his appointment.
• •The investigation involves allegations spanning from November 2024 through February 2026.
• •Attorney General James Uthmeier indicated that additional charges are expected.
• •The case is being prosecuted by the Ninth Judicial Circuit.