Tampa Code Enforcement Director Fired Following FDLE Investigation into Lottery Scheme
Tampa Code Enforcement Director Fired Amid FDLE Investigation
TAMPA, Fla. — In a significant shake-up within the city’s administration, Keith O’Connor, Tampa’s Code Enforcement Director and husband of former Tampa Police Chief Mary O’Connor, has been dismissed following an investigation by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).
The investigation centered around allegations that O’Connor improperly facilitated a lottery winner’s collection of winnings, potentially to evade child support obligations. According to the FDLE report, a friend of O’Connor claimed he had arranged for someone else to cash a scratch-off ticket, raising suspicions of a scheme designed to prevent the child’s mother from receiving due support.
While investigators concluded that the evidence was insufficient for criminal prosecution—citing challenges in proving theft beyond a reasonable doubt—the City of Tampa took decisive action. O’Connor’s supervisors determined that his actions reflected poor judgment, leading to his termination.
Mayor Jane Castor addressed the situation, emphasizing the city’s commitment to integrity and accountability. “Our organization is built on professionalism, accountability, and integrity. The community we serve expects and deserves the highest standards from all City employees, especially those in leadership positions,” she stated.
This incident marks another chapter in a tumultuous period for the O’Connor family. Mary O’Connor resigned from her role as police chief after a controversial encounter with a Pinellas County deputy, during which she allegedly sought leniency for a potential traffic violation while driving a golf cart.
As the dust settles on this latest development, the City of Tampa is reaffirming its dedication to upholding ethical standards within its ranks. The FDLE investigation has now concluded, but the ramifications of O’Connor’s actions will likely resonate within the community for some time to come.