Mayor arrested in the United States

According to Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier's statement, Espinosa is accused of misusing public funds under the city's Business Boost 2.0 program.

In the arrest order, it was stated that a dance studio, restaurant, and real‑estate company owned or controlled by Espinosa himself or close family members received a total of $50,000 in grants. State officials argued that the applications were made as soon as the program opened in September 2025.

Espinosa will be tried on charges of second‑degree aggravated burglary and first‑degree organized fraud. If convicted, he could face up to 30 years in prison.

Espinosa denies the allegations.

The mayor’s lawyer, Migdalia Perez, said she would contest the charges in court, asserting her client’s innocence.

Perez noted that the program was publicly approved and run by city staff, emphasizing that there is a distinction between an alleged ethical breach and a punishable offense.

The Kissimmee City Council launched an internal investigation into the design, management, and oversight of the Business Boost 2.0 program following the incident.

According to the municipality's statement, Espinosa remains officially in office until a situation such as removal from duty, dismissal, or resignation occurs.

Deputy mayor Angela Eady will carry out the mayoral duties at meetings and ceremonies in Espinosa's absence.