Governor Ron DeSantis suspended Palm Beach County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller Mike Caruso from office Tuesday following the clerk's arrest on five felony charges related to the sexual abuse of a child.

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced the arrest early Tuesday morning. Caruso, 67, of Lake Park, faces charges including lewd or lascivious molestation, lewd or lascivious exhibition, kidnapping, child abuse causing mental injury, and luring or enticing a child. The allegations involve a minor under the age of 12 and stem from incidents reported in 2024.

The arrest was based on allegations made by Caruso's grandson, according to reports. Caruso was booked into the Palm Beach County jail. DeSantis issued an executive order suspending Caruso effective immediately, barring him from performing official duties, receiving pay, or exercising any privileges of the office.

Caruso, a former Republican state representative who served seven years in the Florida House, was appointed to the clerk position by DeSantis in August 2025. The appointment came one year to the day before the arrest. He had been a consistent supporter of the governor.

The swift suspension aligns with Florida law that allows the governor to remove officials facing felony charges. No trial date or further details on the investigation have been released at this time.