An Orlando Realtor leader, Cliff Long, is under scrutiny following a 2021 confidential report alleging he sent inappropriate messages about meeting women in Panama during a work trip. The messages, discovered by employees monitoring his professional Facebook account, suggest solicitation of prostitutes, a claim Long denies, calling it "guy talk." The law firm investigating the matter found his explanation lacked credibility.
Realtor Leader Under Investigation
Cliff Long, CEO of the Orlando Regional Realtor Association (ORRA), which represents approximately 20,000 Realtors in Central Florida, is facing allegations stemming from messages sent during a March 2020 trip to Panama. The messages, inadvertently discovered by ORRA marketing staff, led to an internal investigation by the law firm Polsinelli.
Details of the Allegations
- Messages exchanged between Long and a contact named Marvin included discussions about meeting "beautiful girls" and pricing for various durations, ranging from $100 to $600.
- Marvin sent Long photographs of scantily clad women.
- Long denied paying for sex or engaging in illegal activities, asserting the conversations were merely "guy talk."
- The Polsinelli report, however, concluded that Long’s explanation "lacks credibility."
- Panama is identified by the U.S. Department of State as a country with issues of sex trafficking.
Internal Investigation and ORRA’s Response
ORRA stated that the matter was investigated and closed four years ago with no findings of illegal activity. However, the law firm’s report indicated that ORRA’s internal investigation was inadequate and that the Board was not fully briefed on the circumstances. The report also highlighted concerns among staff about a perceived lack of accountability for executive leadership and a potential undermining of ORRA’s values regarding a respectful work environment.
Long’s Defense and Previous Incidents
Long claimed he met a server who introduced him to Marvin for a tour, and that his inquiries about "beautiful girls" were part of seeking a genuine tour experience. He also suggested an employee might have accessed his account with a "vendetta," a claim the law firm found no evidence to support. This incident is not the first time Long has been in the news; he was previously linked to a controversial $45,000 grant check from former Orange County Supervisor Glen Gilzean to the Realtor Association’s foundation, which was later returned.
Key Takeaways
- The investigation, though closed by ORRA, raised questions about the thoroughness of the internal process and transparency with the Board.
- The incident reportedly created an impression among staff that executive leadership was not held accountable for their actions.
- The law firm recommended clearer reporting guidelines for staff when concerns involve executive leadership.
- Long, who earns over $500,000 annually, has previously been recognized for his work and leadership in the real estate industry.
Sources
- Orlando Realtor leader investigated for messages about women in Panama, Florida Politics.