Judge: Acquitted Florida mayor should be returned to office

MIAMI (AP) – A judge has ruled that a South Florida mayor acquitted of federal corruption charges should be restored to his old office.

Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Gisela Cardonne Ely ruled Tuesday that Michael Pizzi should return as Miami Lakes mayor and also receive back pay and other benefits dating to August 2013.

Pizzi was suspended as mayor after he was charged in an undercover FBI investigation into questionable city grants, but a jury found him not guilty, and Gov. Rick Scott lifted the suspension. Pizzi went to court after Miami Lakes officials said his replacement, Wayne Slaton, was properly elected to serve out the term through November 2016.

The order was stayed 30 days to allow time for appeals. City officials say they are considering legal options.