**Palm Beach County Clerk Suspended Amid Serious Child Abuse Charges**
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In a shocking development, Palm Beach County Clerk of Court Mike Caruso has been arrested on multiple charges, including child sexual abuse involving a younger male relative. The announcement was made by Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, highlighting the gravity of the allegations against the 67-year-old official.
The investigation into Caruso commenced following a series of alleged incidents that reportedly began in November 2024. According to court documents, Caruso took a boy on fishing trips to a local pond, during which the alleged abuse occurred. These allegations have raised serious concerns given Caruso’s position as a public official.
Further allegations involve a family cruise on the Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas in August 2025. Family members reportedly joined Caruso on the trip, which he purchased for at least ten relatives. During the cruise, it is claimed that Caruso separated the alleged victim from other adults under the pretense of fetching ice cream while the ship was in international waters.
The troubling revelations came to light after the boy’s father noticed concerning behaviour from the victim, who was seen acting in a sexualised manner with his younger brother. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement reported that the boy eventually disclosed the incidents to family members, leading to further inquiries into Caruso’s conduct.
Upon confronting the allegations in December 2025, Caruso made several partial admissions but denied the more serious charges. Furthermore, court documents indicate that he allegedly threatened family members, warning them not to report him. Caruso purportedly stated, “If you tell anyone I will get arrested. I will just go away. You tell anyone I’m going to jail.”
In February 2026, during a recorded discussion with law enforcement, Caruso attempted to defend himself, claiming he was only attracted to women and insisted that it was “impossible” for him to be a sex offender.
In light of these allegations, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced Caruso’s suspension from his position as Clerk and Comptroller of Palm Beach County. Caruso, a Republican and former state legislator, had been appointed to the clerk’s office in August 2025, and he was also in the process of seeking re-election in the upcoming November elections.
In response to the charges, Caruso’s office released a statement, expressing surprise at the news but affirming their commitment to the community they serve. The office emphasised that the allegations do not reflect their values or dedication to public service.
Caruso is currently being held without bail at the Orange County Jail as he awaits his first court appearance. As investigations continue, officials are treating this matter with utmost seriousness to ensure justice is served.
Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding child abuse to contact the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline. Available 24/7 and offering confidential support in over 170 languages, the hotline provides crucial assistance to those in need.
As the case unfolds, the situation remains a stark reminder of the responsibilities held by public officials and the serious implications of their actions.