Former S. Miami Mayor: "I'm Not THAT Julio Robaina"
MIAMI (CBS4) - Shakespeare asked, "What's in a name?"
Well, a lot, it would appear if the the name is Julio Robaina.
Former two time Hialeah Mayor Julio Robaina and his wife Raiza were arrested Friday on federal charges of conspiracy, tax evasion and lying to agents in connection with an alleged loan sharking scheme.
But there's another well known Julio Robaina in town. Julio Robaina, former mayor of South Miami and also a former member of the Florida legislature. The other Robaina - the un-indicted one - says the arrest of the politician from Hialeah has caused confusion among some.
Robaina - the one not charged with anything - is now with the property management group, Pazos, Robaina and Zapata.
"Anybody who knows me personally or politically knows I'm not that Julio Robaina, South Miami's Robaina told CBS4 News Friday, referring to his indicted namesake. "But I've gotten a few calls from clients wondering if my legal problems are going to distract me from their business."
For the record, the Julio Robaina who did not get indicted this week has never been arrested for anything.
"Never!" he said, smiling. "I even have a safe driver record on my license. The last time I got a ticket was years ago, when I think I was speeding to Tallahassee to make it in time for an important vote."
Does the former state lawmaker and South Miami mayor have future political aspirations?
"No," He replied emphatically. "Not after this."
He paused a moment, then added, "Unless, of course, I change my name."
