ORLANDO, Fla. – A 70-year-old Cuban national, identified as Jose Valerio-Rodriguez, was arrested by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) on charges of human trafficking and unlawful sexual activity with a minor.
The FCSO Major Case Unit launched an investigation after deputies spoke with a 16-year-old girl who had returned home after being reported missing. The victim disclosed she had been staying with a homeless man in a tent behind a Palm Coast gas station, where a sexual encounter occurred.
Investigation Leads to Arrest
Following the victim’s statement, detectives involved the Florida Department of Children and Families and conducted an emergency forensic examination. Their investigation identified Valerio-Rodriguez, an undocumented immigrant, as the suspect.
On March 3, authorities executed a search warrant on Valerio-Rodriguez’s tent and collected his DNA before placing him under arrest.
Legal Action & Deportation Efforts
Valerio-Rodriguez is being held without bond at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility. Detectives have also contacted Homeland Security to facilitate his deportation.
The case remains under investigation as law enforcement continues efforts to combat human trafficking in Florida.
