In late 2022, deputies from Osceola County performed a standard business inspection at the Eclipse Social Club located in Kissimmee, Florida.
During their inspection, deputies discovered “casino-style digital slot machines” and various other gambling apparatus, as detailed in an incident report, indicating the presence of an illicit gaming operation.
There was no manager present, nor was there an occupational license visibly available for the deputies’ review, according to the report. Nevertheless, the deputies exited without closing down the establishment or making any arrests.
While the deputies were inspecting the premises, it is alleged that the club’s operator, Krishna Deokaran, informed by his staff of their visit, texted then-Osceola Sheriff Marcos Lopez: “Your deputies is [sic] at the Eclipse.”
Lopez allegedly responded: “Let me know if they say anything.”
Release of Bodycam Footage
Almost three years later, Lopez found himself arrested on racketeering charges. State prosecutors assert that he protected and profited from this operation, among others.
Recently released bodycam footage, acquired by Florida’s News 6, documents the deputies’ visit, offering a glimpse into the club years prior to the exposure of the alleged corruption.
Florida prosecutors allege that Lopez accepted approximately $700,000 from Deokaran in exchange for leveraging his authority as sheriff to shield the operation from law enforcement intervention.
According to prosecutors, Lopez was in partnership with Deokaran and assisted in securing the lease for the Eclipse venue.
Deokaran later informed state investigators that he delivered earnings from the gambling operation to Lopez, often concealing the cash in manila envelopes, as reported in court documents.
He has pleaded guilty to federal money laundering offenses and is currently cooperating with the investigation.
‘Absence of Documentation’
Lopez, through his attorneys, refutes the charges of racketeering and conspiracy, entering a not guilty plea. If convicted, he could face significant prison time.
His attorney, Migdalia Perez, commented to News 6, stating that the prosecution relies on fragmented evidence, creating a fundamentally misleading portrayal of this intricate criminal case.
The recently disclosed footage does not indicate any wrongdoing by the deputies. One officer later expressed to investigators that he found it unusual that the business operated seemingly “with no paper trail.”