DeSantis sued by Scott Israel over removal

Arguably one of Florida’s most hated, if not the most hated politicians, Scott Israel, has filed a federal lawsuit to get his old job back.

Israel has filed suit against Gov. Ron DeSantis and Senate President Bill Galvano, saying that he was not afforded his “due process” when the Republican-led Senate voted to uphold DeSantis’ suspension.

Israel has cried foul, saying that he did nothing wrong, but DeSantis and most of Florida saw his handling of the 2018 Valentine’s Day Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting that left 17 students and teachers dead, as well as the 2017 Fort Lauderdale airport shooting that left 5 dead, as good enough reasons for his removal.

Through his attorney Ben Kuehne, Israel sent this statement:

“I committed to all the people of Broward County that I would work hard every day to Serve and Protect. I am doing exactly that, and intend to show all Broward residents that I am humbled by their trust and confidence in my law enforcement service."

The lawsuit contends that Israel was the victim of a “highly partisan removal” and that DeSantis failed to clearly prove that he had neglected his duties as sheriff.

Israel has already filed for re-election and is actively campaigning. Current Sheriff Greg Tony, who was appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis after firing Israel, recently announced that he would be running in 2020, and the rumors that former Broward Sheriff Al Lamberti could be considering another run for office have been confirmed to The Floridian.