Palm Beach Clerk Michael Caruso Expected to Face Multiple Florida Felony Charges Involving Alleged Sexual Offenses Against a Young Child

ORLANDO, FL [Press Release] (August 18, 2026) — Michael Caruso, 67, of Palm Beach County has been arrested on a 5 count arrest warrant and is expected to face felony charges for lewd or lascivious molestation of a child under the age of 12, lewd or lascivious exhibition, luring or enticing a child, kidnapping, and child abuse causing mental injury.  At the time of his arrest, Caruso was the Clerk of Courts of Palm Beach County. The Office of the Governor issued a public statement affirming that Caruso was suspended.

The Haba Law Firm represents the victim in this case.

The charges stem from allegations that Caruso began grooming the young child in fall 2024, initially touching the child’s 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’s Marsy’s Law, no identifying information about the child will be released.

“This arrest is a decisive line in the sand. When someone targets a child, they don’t just break the law — they shatter a community’s trust. We intend to make sure this survivor’s voice is heard through every step of this process,” says Lisa Haba of The Haba Law Firm, the victim’s attorney.

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.

About The Haba Law Firm, P.A.

The Haba Law Firm is based in Central Florida. The firm focuses exclusively on sexual abuse and human trafficking litigation, bringing specialized experience and deep knowledge to these sensitive cases. The team includes an award winning civil litigator, an award-winning former sex crimes and human trafficking prosecutor, and every attorney is trauma-informed and survivor-centered. Haba Law is committed to aggressive, effective representation and holding accountable those who harm children and vulnerable individuals.