Governor’s Office Accused of Bullying Newspaper Reporter

The Orlando Sentinel is pushing back against what it calls a blatant attempt to stifle investigative journalism by the DeSantis administration. The newspaper’s editorial board published a strong response after receiving a cease-and-desist letter from the Florida Department of Children and Families, demanding reporter Jeffrey Schweers halt his reporting on funding connected to Hope Florida, the non-profit spearheaded by First Lady Casey DeSantis.

The letter accused Schweers of harassment and coercion in his attempts to interview foster families for a story examining the flow of funds through the charity. The Sentinel’s editorial board characterized the letter as a “chilling” attempt to intimidate the newsroom and suppress a legitimate investigation. They maintain they will not be deterred.

The newspaper’s investigation has uncovered evidence suggesting that Hope Florida may have been used to divert millions of dollars in federal Medicaid settlement funds – money intended for healthcare for low-income individuals – to two political organizations actively opposing a ballot amendment legalizing recreational marijuana.

State Representative Alex Andrade (R-Pensacola), who previously investigated the charity, told Florida Politics that the fund transfer could potentially constitute money laundering or other criminal offenses, stating a $10 million fraud would typically result in imprisonment.

Sentinel Executive Editor Roger Simmons firmly defended his reporter and the newspaper’s work, stating they “stand by our stories and reject the state’s attempt to chill free speech and encroach on our First Amendment right to report on an important issue.” The state’s claims regarding the reporter’s conduct were labeled as “completely false.”

Casey DeSantis has denied any wrongdoing.

This situation is deeply concerning. While legitimate scrutiny of any organization, including charities and those connected to public figures, is essential, attempting to silence journalists through legal threats is a dangerous precedent. The DeSantis administration’s actions appear to be a clear attempt to control the narrative and shield Hope Florida from public accountability. The Sentinel’s refusal to back down is commendable, and their continued reporting is vital to ensuring transparency and upholding the principles of a free press. The public deserves to know how their tax dollars are being spent, and any attempt to obstruct that knowledge should be met with resistance.