Haitian pastor charged with inappropriately touching 15-y-o girl in Maimi

MIAMI, CMC - A 50-year-old Haitian national, described as a pastor at the Theophile Church of Miami, has been released on US$27,500 bail after he was arrested following sexual accusations by a 15-year-old girl and her mother.

The authorities arranged for a recorded phone call between the minor and the suspect, with investigators reportedly hearing the man making sexually suggestive remarks to the teenager, which led to an arrest warrant.

The pastor has been accused of inappropriately touching and trying to repeatedly kiss a 15-year-old girl, according to the Miami Dade Sherriff's Office (MDSO). He has been charged with lewd or lascivious molestation; lewd or lascivious conduct.

"Our doors at Haitian Ministry Theophile Church in Christ are open," according to a note on the Church's website.

"According to investigators, the victim, who was 15-years-old, reported to deputies that the pastor of her church, on several occasions fondled her behind, rubbed against her thighs and attempted to kiss her. The mom also observed several text messages that were inappropriate and caused concern and alarm in her," MDSO Detective Angel Rodriguez said.

The sheriff's office said that the teen's mother also reported that she read inappropriate text messages that the suspect, sent to her daughter, which "caused her concern" and that Special Victims Unit detectives were able to obtain an arrest warrant for Vallier.

"At this time, detectives are urging the community to please come forward with any information about this case and are specifically urging the parents who attend this church, if a child has come in contact with the pastor, and if they have any information, please come forward. Detectives want to speak with you," Rodriguez said, as the authorities probe whether there may be other victims.

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