Criminal charges filed against former Florida state Rep. Carolina Amesty labeled as “clear religious prosecution and a further personal political attack” by her attorney

Carolina Amesty, a former Florida state representative and Christian youth pastor, has accused the Biden administration of using criminal charges as a form of religious prosecution and a political attack. The charges, filed by U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg on Jan. 16, 2025, allege two counts of theft of government property related to alleged fraud in the use of Small Business Administration Economic Injury Disaster Loans. Amesty, who is described as innocent of the charges, claims the prosecution is politically motivated and timed to occur just days before the change of administration.
In a letter authored by her attorney, Bradley J. Bondi, Amesty addressed U.S. Senators Josh Hawley, Ted Cruz, and Mike Lee. The letter highlights what Bondi describes as an “11th-hour prosecution” by the Biden administration, which he claims is emblematic of the Department of Justice being used as a political tool. The letter notes that Amesty, a Republican, was a leader in the Orlando-area Hispanic Christian community and had dedicated her time and resources to the betterment of Central Christian University and related Christian non-profits.
Amesty’s father, Pastor Juan Carlos Amesty, founded the network of organizations that she supported. According to Bondi, Amesty contributed $35,000 of her own money to Central Christian University in 2017, when she was just 23 years old. The charges against her relate to her alleged use of SBA loans on behalf of her father’s religious organizations and other businesses, many of which served Christian non-profits. The legal team argues that the timing and method of the charges suggest a political motive.
The letter also points to the U.S. attorney’s personal involvement in the case, which is unusual. Bondi noted that on Jan. 13, 2025, they had requested a meeting to present exculpatory evidence, but the request was not honored. The legal team is prepared to have Amesty testify before the grand jury in her own defense, as they believe the charges are unfounded. The case has raised questions about the integrity of the legal process and the potential for political influence in judicial matters.
Amesty’s case has drawn attention to the broader issue of accountability and transparency in the use of public funds, particularly in the context of religious organizations. The legal team’s argument that the charges are politically motivated underscores the need for impartiality in the justice system. As the case moves forward, it will be closely watched for its implications on both legal and ethical standards in public service.
The situation also raises questions about the role of religious leaders in public office and the responsibilities that come with such positions. Amesty’s dedication to her community and her faith has been a central part of her public profile, making the charges not only a legal matter but also a moral one. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of due process and the need for institutions to uphold the principles of justice and fairness.

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