Kissimmee Mayor Jackie Espinosa has been suspended by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis following her arrest on felony charges linked to alleged fraud in a COVID-19 relief grant program. Vice Mayor Angela Eady will take over her duties. Espinosa is accused of improperly benefiting from the grant program, which was intended to support local businesses during the pandemic. She has pleaded not guilty to the charges. The Florida Commission on Ethics has also reprimanded her and imposed a fine.
Key facts
- Governor Ron DeSantis suspended Kissimmee Mayor Jackie Espinosa on October 31, 2026.
- Espinosa faces felony charges related to COVID-19 grant fraud.
- Vice Mayor Angela Eady will serve as mayor during the suspension.
- Espinosa was arrested on October 21, 2026, and has pleaded not guilty.
- The Florida Commission on Ethics fined Espinosa $2,000 for her actions.
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