In what can be described as an abrupt culmination of a high-profile political scandal, all charges have been dropped against former Miami Commissioner Alex Diaz de la Portilla and his co-defendant, attorney William Riley. The announcement came today from the Broward State Attorney's Office, as Local 10 News reported. After a detailed investigation, the prosecutorial review found that “The evidence does not demonstrate corrupt intent, unlawful benefits, or falsification of records. Witness testimony is unreliable and lawful actions have been misconstrued as criminal.”
The duo had faced serious allegations involving accepting and laundering $245,000 in connection with the development of the Centner Academy’s athletic complex. These claims had led to Diaz de la Portilla’s suspension from his Miami city commission seat, and subsequent loss to Miguel Gabela in the 2023 election while under the fog of criminal charges. The case was initially meant to be prosecuted in Miami-Dade but was reassigned to Broward to deter any conflicts of interest. However, Harold Pryor, the Broward State Attorney, indicated in NBC Miami report, that after a substantial follow-up investigation and extensive depositions, the evidence gathered was ultimately insufficient to support charges.
In a closeout memo obtained by both local news outlets, Broward prosecutors elaborated on their decision. Citing that witness testimony was unreliable and lawful actions had been misrepresented as criminal, the memo highlighted the circumstantial nature of the case. According to the Local 10 News article, the prosecutors articulated, “Substantial follow-up investigations and depositions have occurred that revealed that the foundation of this entire investigation was misguided and buttressed by unverified information.”
For Diaz de la Portilla, who fervently denied any and all improprieties from the outset, the news confirms his stance. His prior attempt to reclaim his commission seat proved unsuccessful, notwithstanding his vindication in the legal arena. Without the charges looming over him, his future in public service remains an open question. William Riley, along with the former commissioner, maintained a consistent plea of not guilty throughout the proceedings.
