Miami, FL - A Miami church driver has been arrested after police say he exchanged sexually explicit messages with a 13-year-old girl he met through his job transporting children to church activities.
Investigators said the teen began attending an evening class in 2024 at Ministerio Internacional Jesus El Salvador Church, located at 2300 NW 23rd Street. The program is intended for children only. Ortiz-Cruz had been hired to transport them to and from the church each week.
Police Identify Suspect as 23-Year-Old Elvin Daniel Ortiz-Cruz
According to the City of Miami Police Department, 23-year-old Elvin Daniel Ortiz-Cruz faces multiple charges, including promoting sexual performance by a child, electronic transmission harmful to minors, and solicitation of a child for sexual acts.
Authorities said the case began on November 3, when the victim’s mother discovered a series of explicit WhatsApp messages between Ortiz-Cruz and her daughter and immediately contacted police.
Victim’s Mother Discovers Messages on WhatsApp
The victim told detectives that Ortiz-Cruz began messaging her last year and that the conversations became increasingly inappropriate over time. Police reported that he exposed himself in video chats and encouraged the child to do the same.
Undercover Operation Leads to Arrest
Detectives with the Miami Police Special Victims Unit collected explicit messages and photographs exchanged between the pair as evidence. An undercover operation was launched, and on November 23, officers arrested Ortiz-Cruz outside the church.
He now faces one count of sexual performance by a child, three counts of transmitting harmful material to a minor, and four counts of solicitation involving a child.
Police Warn There May Be Additional Victims
When questioned, Ortiz-Cruz told investigators that he met many people he transported while preaching on the streets. Detectives believe there could be other victims and are urging them to come forward.
Ortiz-Cruz appeared in court Monday, where his attorney, Ramon Sarmiento, did not contest probable cause but requested standard bond amounts.
Miami Police Urge Parents to Monitor Online Activity
Miami Police Public Information Officer Kiara Delva encouraged parents to remain vigilant. “Take some time after school to talk to them and see what they’re going through,” Delva said. “Even review their phones because a lot of times there’s inappropriate activity online. Let’s be mindful and help protect our children.”
Florida Attorney Explains Rights After Church Driver Arrest
Following the arrest of a Miami church driver accused of sending explicit messages to a 13-year-old girl, we sat down with veteran Florida sexual abuse lawyer Michael Haggard to discuss what legal options may be available for victims. In this conversation, Haggard outlines how civil lawsuits can provide accountability beyond criminal charges and what families should know when abuse occurs under an organization’s supervision.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When a church employee is accused of exploiting a child, what can families do beyond the criminal case?
Michael Haggard, Esq.: In these cases, the civil system can play a vital role. Families can pursue claims against the individual abuser and, in some situations, the church or organization if there’s evidence of negligent hiring, supervision, or failure to protect children from foreseeable harm.
Banville: And if other victims come forward later?
Haggard: That’s actually common. Once an arrest becomes public, others who may have stayed silent are more likely to speak up. Each victim has the right to seek accountability through both criminal and civil courts. Legal action can also push institutions to adopt stricter safety measures.
Banville: So, legal action is not only about compensation but prevention.
Haggard: Exactly. Holding organizations accountable helps prevent future abuse and sends a clear message that protecting children must be the top priority.
Standing Up for Survivors
Victims of sexual abuse and their families do not have to face these traumatic experiences alone. Legal support is available to help hold those responsible accountable and protect others from harm. If you or someone you love has been affected by abuse involving a trusted organization or church employee, contact our legal team today for a free and confidential consultation. Taking the first step can make a difference for your recovery and your rights.
