Alberto Gutman: Cuban-born Florida state senator (1992–1999) and 1999 conviction

Early life and entry into politics

Gutman's childhood migration from Cuba shaped his early life in the United States. After completing his education he entered public service in Florida, eventually winning election to the state senate in 1992. During his time in the legislature he was identified with the Republican caucus and worked on issues affecting his constituents throughout the decade.

Legal case and conviction

In 1998 Gutman was charged with criminal misconduct related to financial dealings; the indictment led to a trial and a subsequent conviction. In 1999 he received a sentence that included two years in federal prison. The charges are commonly described as involving fraud, and the case drew attention because of his role as a sitting state lawmaker at the time of the indictment.

Later life and death

After serving his sentence Gutman lived privately for several years. He died on February 17, 2019 in Miami, Florida, at the age of 60.

• Born: January 4, 1959, Havana, Cuba
• Political party: Republican
• Office: Member of the Florida Senate (1992–1999)
• Legal outcome: Indicted 1998; convicted and sentenced in 1999 for charges involving fraud
• Died: February 17, 2019, Miami, Florida