Tracy Caruso, wife of suspended Palm Beach County Clerk Michael Caruso, has resigned from public boards to support her husband, who faces serious child sex abuse allegations. She has strongly denied the charges, labeling them as false, and stands by her husband’s innocence.

In a statement to WPTV, Tracy Caruso affirmed her belief in her husband’s character and innocence, expressing her commitment to standing by him as he works to clear his name. Her resignation from the boards of the Health Care District of Palm Beach County and Palm Beach State College Board of Trustees aims to prevent her husband’s circumstances from distracting the boards’ work.

Despite stepping down, Caruso clarified her resignation is not an acknowledgment of any wrongdoing. Appointed by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to these roles, she has previously run for mayor of Delray Beach. Additionally, Tracy Caruso serves as a stepmother to seven children and was appointed to the Palm Beach County Housing Finance Authority.

“I know my husband. I love Mike, I believe him, and I believe in his innocence,” Tracy Caruso stated.

Michael Caruso, aged 67, was arrested on five felony charges, including child molestation and kidnapping. He pleaded not guilty in his first court appearance. Past allegations of child abuse in 2012 were cleared by police due to lack of evidence.

Following his arrest, Governor DeSantis immediately suspended Michael Caruso from office, stating the allegations are “truly horrific” and highlighting Florida’s death penalty law for certain child sexual abuse convictions. Investigations suggest Caruso abused a relative multiple times from fall 2024 to August 2025.

Statements from legal representatives emphasize the gravity of the charges, highlighting the breach of community trust these crimes bring. Michael Caruso may face life imprisonment if convicted, with potential eligibility for the death penalty.

Caruso remains in Orange County jail without bond and will attend a pretrial detention hearing. Governor DeSantis has remarked on the potential severity of sentencing if the allegations are proven.