During a recorded interview with Orange County law enforcement, the victim detailed multiple incidents spanning nearly a year. The child disclosed that around November 2024, Caruso took him fishing alone at a pond, touching him inappropriately.<\/p>\n
The most serious allegations center on a seven-day Royal Caribbean cruise aboard the Icon of the Seas that Caruso purchased for at least 10 family members in August 2025. Court documents state that while the ship was in international waters, Caruso separated the victim from other adults and engaged in inappropriate acts with the child.<\/p>\n
When confronted by family members in December 2025, Caruso made several partial admissions while denying the most serious allegations.<\/p>\n
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WTVJ<\/p>\n
According to the arrest warrant and affidavit filed in Orange County Circuit Court, Michael Caruso, 67, faces charges of kidnapping, lewd or lascivious molestation, lewd or lascivious exhibition, luring or enticing a child and child abuse causing mental injury.<\/p>\n
Court documents reveal Caruso made threatening statements to his family, saying: “If you tell anyone I will get arrested. I will just go away. You tell anyone I’m going to jail.” He also offered not to return to Orange County and suggested the matter didn’t need to be reported.<\/p>\n
During a February 2026 recorded conversation with law enforcement, Caruso claimed the allegations were “impossible” because sexual deviation is directed toward only one sex, and since he’s attracted to women, he couldn’t be a sex offender.<\/p>\n
The victim has been receiving therapeutic services since April 2026 due to trauma from the alleged incidents. The Haba Law Firm is representing the victim in this case and has since released the following statement:<\/p>\n
The charges stem from allegations that Caruso began grooming the young child in fall 2024, initially touching the child\u2019s genitals, exposing his own genitals, and desensitizing the child to sexual contact. The conduct allegedly culminated on a cruise in August 2025, where he sexually battered the minor. Consistent with Florida\u2019s Marsy\u2019s Law, no identifying information about the child will be released.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis arrest is a decisive line in the sand. When someone targets a child, they don\u2019t just break the law \u2014 they shatter a community\u2019s trust. We intend to make sure this survivor\u2019s voice is heard through every step of this process,\u201d said Lisa Haba, of The Haba Law Firm, the victim\u2019s attorney.<\/p>\n
The matter remains under active investigation. Formal charges are anticipated. Additional information will be released as the case progresses. Any questions, or any other individuals that have been victimized by Michael Caruso are encouraged to reach out. Anyone with information, please contact The Haba Law Firm at www.habalaw.com.<\/p>\n
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement investigated with assistance from other agencies. FDLE is now overseeing the immediate transition of Caruso from office and ensuring no files or records are removed from the clerk’s office.<\/p>\n
Caruso’s suspension prohibits him from performing any official duties, receiving pay, or accessing any privileges of public office.<\/p>\n