ORLANDO, Fla. — The former chairman of the Republican Party of Florida was arrested today for allegedly running a scam bilking money from the party.

The Florida Department of Law enforcement took Jim Greer into custody today at his Orlando-area home. The 47-year-old has been charged with six counts of organized scheme to defraud, four counts of felony grand theft and one count of money laundering.

Greer resigned in February after reports surfaced that he used party funds on ritzy hotels, gourmet restaurants and private jets.

His steep descent from party chairman to pariah could drag down Gov. Charlie Crist's bid for U.S. Senate. The two are longtime allies, and Crist backed Greer until the day he stepped down.

Greer's attorney did not immediately return telephone and e-mail messages seeking comment.

By The Associated Press