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ICYMI: Attorney General James Uthmeier and FDLE Announce Arrest of Palm Beach County Clerk of Court on Child Sexual Abuse Charges

FDLE Headquarters

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 18, 2026

 

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Attorney General James Uthmeier announced that Michael Allen Caruso, 67, of Riviera Beach, has been arrested and faces charges related to child sex abuse.

“Being in a position of public trust provides no shield from accountability,” said Attorney General James Uthmeier. “Thanks to the thorough investigation by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Office of Statewide Prosecution, this individual will face the full force of the law.”

“When allegations involve harm to a child, we mobilize every resource to uncover the truth and ensure those responsible are brought to justice,” said FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass. “Our team conducted a comprehensive investigation with close coordination from partner agencies. We are steadfast in protecting Florida’s children and will continue our work with the Office of Statewide Prosecution.”

Caruso will be transported to the Orange County Jail and held without bond pending first appearance. The investigation remains ongoing and more charges are expected. More information will be made public at the appropriate time.

The case is being prosecuted by Special Counsel Rita Peters and Senior Assistant Statewide Prosecutor Lauryn Day in the Ninth Judicial Circuit.

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FDLE is composed of five areas: Executive Direction and Business Support, Criminal Investigations and Forensic Science, Criminal Justice Information, Criminal Justice Professionalism and Florida Capitol Police. FDLE’s duties, responsibilities and procedures are mandated through Chapter 943, FS, and Chapter 11, FAC. To learn more about these areas, read our Statement of Agency Organization and Operation or visit our Open Government page.