Palm Beach County Clerk Arrested on Child Sex Abuse Charges

Palm Beach County Clerk of Court Michael Caruso, once a Republican state legislator who supported the death penalty for adults convicted of sexually assaulting children under 12, faces serious legal charges. On Tuesday, authorities arrested Caruso, aged 67, on five felony child sex abuse counts.

Caruso, a married father of seven, was appointed by Republican Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. He now faces charges of kidnapping, child molestation, lewd exhibition, luring or enticing a child, and child abuse causing mental injury, according to an arrest affidavit. Investigators allege that Caruso abused a relative multiple times from fall 2024 to August 2025. The incidents reportedly happened on various occasions, including a family cruise, a fishing outing, and a Thanksgiving gathering. The child has been receiving therapeutic services since April 2026.

“Being in a position of public trust provides no shield from accountability,” stated Attorney General James Uthmeier. “This individual will face the full force of the law.”

DeSantis, who appointed Caruso as court clerk and comptroller in August 2025, suspended him from office on Tuesday. Newsweek reached out to both the Palm Beach County Clerk’s Office and DeSantis’ office for comments.

What Bill Did Caruso Support?

While representing District 87 in the Florida House, Caruso supported the 2023 Florida Capital Sexual Battery law. This legislation allows the death penalty for adults convicted of sexually assaulting a child under 12. Caruso voted in favor during the April 13, 2023, House vote. DeSantis signed the bill in May 2023, and it took effect six months later.

Caruso, facing reelection in November, is not on Tuesday’s primary ballot as he runs uncontested. The Florida GOP urged Caruso to withdraw from the race immediately.

The Palm Beach County Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller’s office expressed surprise over the news, stating it awaits further direction from the governor’s office. Following Caruso’s arrest, Shannon Ramsey-Chessman was sworn in as interim clerk. As of Tuesday afternoon, Caruso’s official page on the clerk’s website was unavailable.

Authorities booked Caruso into Orange County jail, and he remains detained without bond. The investigation continues, and Uthmeier’s office anticipates additional charges.

For further details, contact Newsweek editors Anna Commander and Edward T. Cummins.