Despite sexual harassment investigation, state senator will be marshal for Anna Maria parade

A state lawmaker embroiled in scandal will serve as parade marshal at the city of Anna Maria’s first Old Soldiers & Sailors Parade on Friday.

Sen. Jack Latvala, R-Clearwater, was accused by six anonymous women of inappropriate touching and forms of verbal harassment on Friday. Shortly after the allegations came to light, Senate President Joe Negron ordered an independent investigation into the claims.

Anna Maria Mayor Dan Murphy said the selection of the parade marshal was made three months ago and he stands by his decision to host Latvala, who he called a “champion of local government.”

“During the process, we were looking for a champion of local government and his track record is one that stands out,” Murphy said.

Murphy said that it’s too soon to pass judgment on Latvala because “we don’t know the facts.”

“Someone’s innocent until proven guilty,” Murphy said. “It’s the American way.”

Latvala, a Republican candidate for governor in the 2018 election, said he believes the allegations are designed to tarnish his name. He has denied the accusations and hopes the probe will serve to clear his name.

“I am convinced that a lot of what’s going on is an organized effort to tear down the Senate prior to session and make us weak so that we have a hard time standing up on the issues we care about,” he previously told reporters.

In the meantime, Latvala has temporarily been removed from his seat as the Senate Appropriations Chair and has been replaced by Negron.

Friday’s parade begins at 1 p.m. at Anna Maria City Hall, 10005 Gulf Drive. Veterans who would like to participate are asked to assemble at City Hall by 12:30 p.m.

The parade will feature two marching bands, an honor guard and a special veteran’s recognition ceremony. An ice cream social will be held at the historic museum after the parade.

This story was originally published November 6, 2017 at 4:55 PM with the headline "Despite sexual harassment investigation, state senator will be marshal for Anna Maria parade."