Local Politics · Kissimmee, FL
Florida Governor Suspends Kissimmee Mayor Over Fraud, Ethics Charges
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis suspended Kissimmee Mayor Eva Jacqulyn "Jackie" Espinosa following her Oct. 21 arrest on fraud and grand theft charges tied to the Boost 2.0 economic grant program, which used federal dollars to aid small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Prosecutors allege businesses linked to Espinosa and family members received grants through the program; she faces charges of grand theft between $20,000 and $100,000 and organized fraud of $50,000 or more, carrying potential sentences of up to 15 and 30 years respectively. On Oct. 23, the Florida Commission on Ethics accepted a settlement in which Espinosa admitted violating state ethics law, agreeing to pay a $2,000 fine and issue a public apology. Vice Mayor Angela Eady will serve as mayor until the suspension is lifted or Espinosa's term ends.