Florida AG Subpoenas Vero Beach Vice Mayor Over Pride Event Investigation

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has subpoenaed Vero Beach Vice Mayor Linda Moore and her business, the Kilted Mermaid, following an investigation into a June 29 event called the "Pride Tea Dance." The event, promoted on social media as "all ages welcome," featured adult performers in revealing and burlesque-style attire, which Uthmeier characterized as sexualized performances in front of children, allegedly violating state law. The subpoenas request extensive documentation, including surveillance footage, employee schedules, contracts with performers, guest lists, security personnel details, and policies related to age verification and admission. Moore, who owns the Kilted Mermaid, has denied calls for her resignation, stating the show was family-friendly until the drag performances began. The Office of Statewide Prosecution is investigating the extent of the content and its exposure to minors, with Moore due to appear in court on August 8. The investigation has sparked local controversy and council discussions amid heightened scrutiny of LGBTQ+ events involving minors in Florida.