Former “ghost candidate” spent campaign contributions on day spas, dining: FDLE

FLORIDA – The Florida Department of Law Enforcement said it has arrested an Osceola man in connection with an alleged ghost candidate scheme.

Carlos Irizarry Sr., 67, of Buena Ventura Lakes, was arrested by inspectors with FDLE’s Election Crime Unit and charged with eight counts of willful certification of false or incomplete campaign treasures reports and six counts of deliberate failure to report campaign expenditures as required.

According to the FDLE, the agency began its investigation last year after receiving an allegation that Irizarry was paid to enter the 2022 District Four Osceola County Commissioner’s race to affect its outcome. After comparing bank records to Irizarry’s campaign treasures reports, inspectors said they identified a pattern of providing false information.

In eight reports, Irizarry is accused of reporting false campaign expenditures and lying about charitable donations made by the campaign. After the filing fee, The FDLE said Irizarry spent the remaining funds on personal items like day spas and restaurants.

Attorney General Ashley Moody’s Office of Statewide Prosecution is prosecuting this case. The investigation is ongoing.