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MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. — A 54-year-old man has been arrested after admitting to the sexual abuse of a 13-year-old boy inside a church restroom, claiming “the devil” made him do it, according to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office. The disturbing case has rattled the Westchester community and renewed concerns about safety in religious spaces.
The Arrest
Deputies identified the suspect as Alvaro Rios, a Cutler Bay resident and restaurant server. According to an arrest report, officers took Rios into custody at his home shortly before 12:40 a.m. Wednesday, following an investigation that began after the young victim and his family reported the assault.
Records show Rios was booked at 3:25 a.m. at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, where he remains held on felony charges.
Rios faces two counts:
- Lewd and lascivious molestation on a child
- Lewd and lascivious conduct on a child
Both are second-degree felonies under Florida law, each carrying a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison if convicted.
What Happened at St. Agatha Catholic Church
According to the arrest report, the alleged assault occurred around 1 p.m. on October 5 inside a restroom at St. Agatha Catholic Church, located at 1111 SW 107 Avenue in the Westchester area.
The 13-year-old victim told deputies he was followed into the restroom by Rios, who then began to touch him inappropriately.
The report details that Rios “rubbed” the boy’s back, “fondled his buttocks,” grabbed him by the neck, and “kissed him on the lips,” before telling the child “he was beautiful.”
The teen said he felt “disgusted” and ran from the restroom, immediately telling his mother and a family friend what had happened. The family reported the incident to law enforcement, and detectives launched an investigation within hours.
Rios also reportedly asked the boy for his phone number before the assault — behavior investigators said demonstrated clear predatory intent.
The Confession
When confronted by deputies, Rios confessed to the abuse and said “the devil made me do it.” The statement was included in the official arrest affidavit. Detectives noted that Rios appeared to understand his actions and did not appear confused or disoriented at the time of questioning.
Authorities say Rios showed remorse but provided no further explanation for his behavior.
Court Appearance and Bond Hearing
Later that day, Rios appeared before Miami-Dade Circuit Judge Mindy S. Glazer during his bond hearing at approximately 2:30 p.m. He required the assistance of a Spanish interpreter and appeared in court wearing an anti-suicide smock, indicating that correctional staff were taking precautions regarding his mental state.
Judge Glazer addressed Rios firmly during the proceeding.
“Do not go near that child,” she ordered, issuing a no-contact order prohibiting Rios from approaching the victim or the St. Agatha Catholic Church property.
Judge Glazer described the case as “serious” and set bond at $15,000. Court records indicate that Judge Tanya Brinkley has been assigned to oversee the case as it moves forward.
Legal Context: What the Charges Mean
Under Florida Statute 800.04, “lewd and lascivious molestation” involves intentional touching of a child under 16 years of age in a sexual manner. The offense is treated as a second-degree felony when the perpetrator is over 18 and the victim is under 16.
If convicted, Rios faces not only prison time but also mandatory sex offender registration, psychological evaluation, and possible restrictions on residence and employment.
The Church and Community Reaction
The alleged assault has shaken members of the St. Agatha Catholic Church, one of Westchester’s most well-known parishes. The church serves thousands of parishioners and hosts youth ministries, family programs, and school events.
While church officials have not yet issued a formal statement, members of the congregation expressed disbelief and outrage over the incident. Parents in the community said they are demanding stronger supervision measures for minors during services and activities.
Religious institutions are expected to be safe spaces, but this case highlights the need for constant vigilance. Advocates for child safety say the emotional and psychological damage from such assaults can be long-lasting — especially when they occur in trusted environments like churches.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Appeal
The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Bureau continues to investigate the case and is seeking additional information from the public. Detectives believe there may be other victims who have not yet come forward.
Officials are urging anyone with knowledge of similar incidents involving Rios to contact Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward.
As of Thursday, Rios remained in custody pending further court proceedings. Prosecutors will review all evidence, including the victim’s statements, witness accounts, and church surveillance footage, before determining whether additional charges should be filed.
Broader Implications: Child Safety in Faith Settings
The case underscores a painful reality — that abuse can occur in spaces where children should feel safest. Experts emphasize that prevention starts with awareness, education, and immediate reporting of suspicious behavior.
Child advocacy organizations recommend that churches and religious centers:
- Conduct background checks for all volunteers and staff who interact with minors
- Enforce two-adult rules for youth supervision
- Provide training on recognizing and reporting abuse
- Maintain open communication with parents and guardians
Dr. Maria Santiago, a child psychologist based in Miami, said such measures are essential.
“When a child is violated in a sacred space, the damage extends beyond the individual — it harms trust in an entire community,” she explained. “Transparency and accountability are the only paths toward healing.”
Next Steps
Court records show Rios’s next appearance will be scheduled in the coming weeks. The court may order a mental health evaluation, given his claim that “the devil” influenced his actions.
In the meantime, the young victim and his family are receiving support from Miami-Dade’s Victim Assistance Program, which provides counseling and legal guidance for minors affected by abuse.
As the investigation continues, both community leaders and law enforcement officials are urging the public to come forward with information that could prevent future harm.
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