Photo: Getty Images
Monique Worrell, the reelected Orange-Osceola State Attorney, was sworn back into office today (January 7) in Orlando, Florida. Worrell, who was initially elected in 2020, faced suspension by Governor Ron DeSantis in August 2023, following criticism that she was lenient on crime. Her suspension came after a shooting incident involving a suspect with a criminal history. Despite the suspension, Worrell was reelected in November 2024 with nearly 60% of the vote.
Worrell expressed her readiness to continue her work, stating, "I am ready to serve. I am ready to fight for justice and fairness." She emphasized the complexities of the criminal justice system, saying, "It's not black, and it's not white. The criminal justice system is gray."
Worrell's return to office is not without controversy. She is currently the subject of a grand jury investigation in Polk County, though the details remain unclear. Some Democrats, like state Sen. Carlos Guillermo Smith, view the investigation as political retribution. Governor DeSantis has not commented on whether he might suspend Worrell again.
The swearing-in ceremony included a "solidarity walk" in front of the state attorney's office. Worrell will formally take the oath of office with other officials during a ceremony on Wednesday at Jones High School.