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NewsABC Action News (WFTS) — Local NewsAugust 18, 2026Hillsborough

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

Governor Ron DeSantis has suspended Palm Beach County Clerk of Court Michael Caruso from office following his arrest on five felony child sex abuse charges. Caruso is prohibited from performing official duties, receiving pay, or accessing office privileges, and Shannon Ramsey-Chessman has been sworn in as clerk ad interim.

criminal justicegovernment ethicspublic officechild welfare
Read the full story at ABC Action News (WFTS) — Local News

Why It Matters

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 these duties effective immediately.

Key Facts

  • 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, the chief of staff and chief deputy clerk, was sworn in as clerk ad interim.
  • The suspension bars Caruso from performing official duties, receiving pay, or accessing office privileges.
  • The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is overseeing the transition and securing office records.
  • Caruso is being held at the Orange County Jail without bond pending his first appearance.
  • The investigation involves incidents allegedly occurring between November 2024 and August 2025.
  • Attorney General James Uthmeier stated that additional charges are expected.
  • Caruso was originally appointed to the position by Governor DeSantis in August 2025.
  • Caruso was running for election in November to retain his position as an uncontested candidate.

Who's Mentioned

personRon DeSantis“Governor of Florida who suspended Caruso.”personLauryn Day“Senior Assistant Statewide Prosecutor.”personShannon Ramsey-Chessman“Sworn in as clerk ad interim.”personJoseph Abruzzo“Palm Beach County Administrator.”organizationHaba Law Firm“Legal representation for the victim.”personMichael Caruso“Former Palm Beach County Clerk of Court arrested on felony charges.”personRita Peters“Special Counsel prosecuting the case.”locationOrange County Circuit Court“Court where arrest warrant and affidavit were filed.”personJames Uthmeier“Attorney General.”organizationFlorida Department of Law Enforcement“Investigating agency overseeing the transition of office.”