Orlando’s Top Prosecutor Berthelsen Suspended by DeSantis
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has suspended state attorney Monique Worrell for neglect of duty and incompetence. DeSantis accused Worrell of neglecting her duty to prosecute crime in her jurisdiction. He cited her handling of three incidents, including a recent shooting in which two Orlando police officers were injured. DeSantis also criticized Worrell’s office for avoiding mandatory minimum sentences in cases involving guns or drug trafficking, effectively nullifying certain laws in the state. DeSantis said it was his duty to ensure that laws enacted by the legislature are followed and that the people of Central Florida deserve a state attorney who will seek justice according to the law. Last year, DeSantis removed another elected Democrat state attorney who had vowed not to prosecute anyone involved in abortion.
Worrell had previously warned DeSantis against removing prosecutors based on party affiliation, calling it undemocratic. DeSantis has appointed Andrew Bain, a former prosecutor and member of the conservative Federalist Society, to replace Worrell.
