Just closing the loop on our coverage: former Broward County Sheriff Scott Isreal challenged his suspension by Governor Ron Desantis. A review of that act suggested it may not be justified, but the Florida Senate has weighed in, and it’s not good for the former Sheriff.
Related: Florida Senate Committee Upholds Former Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel’s Suspension
The Senate concluded a three-day special session Wednesday evening by voting 25-15 to make Israel’s suspension permanent at the behest of Gov. Ron DeSantis and Parkland school shooting victims’ families, but against a recommendation by the chamber’s own special master who oversaw the “precedent-setting” proceeding to reinstate.
Taxpayers had to front the cost of three days of special session to boot this bum. That’s a crime in and of itself. But that’s how Florida law works, and it seems like a necessary protectin against random acts by governors.
By Florida statute, the governor is authorized to suspend an elected constitutional officer, including a sheriff, for actions such as “misfeasance” and “neglect of duty.”
While the governor has the authority to suspend an elected constitutional officer, state statute also stipulates only the Senate can permanently remove such officials.
Israel, to his credit (or not), isn’t going quietly.
“These politicians in Tallahassee,” Israel continued, “ignored or dismissed the advice of the previous governor, the commission charged with investigating the Parkland murders, the chair of that commission and even their own judge in the matter. Law enforcement in Florida fundamentally changed tonight.”
None of the State Senator representing Broward County voted for his dismissal. It is not clear if he can run again for the elected position or would. But that would be interesting to watch.
Image | Center Square
