Miami, FL - A Miami-Dade pastor has been arrested after authorities say he inappropriately touched a 15-year-old girl from his congregation. The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office confirmed that 50-year-old Elco Vallier, pastor of Theophile Church Miami at 15201 Northwest 7th Avenue, was taken into custody last week in Palm Beach County.
Allegations Spanning Several Years
According to investigators, the victim reported that Vallier fondled her and tried to kiss her on several occasions while at the church. The arrest warrant states the behavior began when she was 13 years old. The teen told detectives that Vallier “rubbed her thighs, touched her buttocks, and attempted to kiss her on the mouth multiple times.”
Mother’s Discovery of Disturbing Messages
The victim’s mother told investigators she discovered inappropriate text messages between Vallier and her daughter. She said Vallier sent messages telling the girl he loved her and calling her beautiful. After confronting her daughter, the mother learned more about the alleged physical contact and immediately went to authorities.
Recorded Call Supports Allegations
During the investigation, detectives arranged a controlled phone call between the teen and Vallier. When the victim confronted him about the messages and the reported touching, Vallier did not deny the claims, according to the warrant.
Arrest and Ongoing Investigation
Vallier, a resident of Loxahatchee, Florida, was arrested on a Miami-Dade warrant with help from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office. He faces charges of lewd and lascivious molestation and lewd and lascivious conduct on a minor.
Detectives are urging anyone with information—or parents whose children may have interacted with Vallier—to contact investigators at 305-715-3300.
Pastor Abuse Case Sparks Legal Questions for Families
A Miami-Dade pastor faces charges after allegedly touching a teenage girl at his church, prompting families to wonder about their rights. Florida sexual abuse lawyer Michael Haggard explains steps parents can take when a religious leader harms a child. The discussion covers reporting options, civil claims against churches, and support for young victims.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: When a family learns their child may have been sexually abused by a pastor, their world can turn upside down. What are the first legal steps they should consider?
Michael Haggard, Esq.: The very first step is safety. Families should make sure the child is no longer around the accused pastor or church setting and report the allegations to law enforcement right away. At the same time, they can reach out to a lawyer experienced in these cases to talk about both the criminal investigation and potential civil claims.
Banville: Can you explain the difference between the criminal case and a civil case in a situation like this?
Haggard: In the criminal case, prosecutors decide whether to file charges against the pastor, and that process is focused on potential jail time and registering the offender. A civil case is separate and allows the child and family to seek compensation from the pastor and, in many cases, the church itself for trauma, therapy, and other losses. Families don’t have to wait for a criminal conviction to explore their civil rights.
Banville: You mentioned the church. How can a religious institution be held responsible?
Haggard: If a church ignored warning signs, failed to run proper background checks, or kept a pastor in a position of authority despite complaints, that can form the basis of a negligence claim. We look at what the church knew, what it should have known, and whether it had reasonable policies in place to protect children.
Banville: For parents who are worried their child may have been harmed but hasn’t spoken up yet, what would you say to them?
Haggard: Listen carefully to your child, don’t pressure them, and document anything that concerns you, such as text messages or sudden changes in behavior. Then, speak with law enforcement and a lawyer who understands these cases so you can figure out the safest way to move forward and preserve any evidence.
Banville: Are there time limits families should be aware of in Florida?
Haggard: Florida has special rules for child sexual abuse cases, and many survivors now have expanded time to bring a civil claim. Still, families should not wait, because evidence and memories are strongest early on. The sooner they get advice, the more options they’re likely to have.
Banville: And finally, what is your message to families who may feel intimidated by the idea of going up against a church?
Haggard: They should know they are not alone. These cases are about accountability and safety, and the civil justice system gives families a way to demand change while seeking the support they need for their child’s recovery. Speaking with a lawyer is a confidential step that can help them understand what’s possible before making any big decisions.
Take Action Today – Free Consultation Awaits
Victims and families facing pastor sexual abuse deserve strong support and clear answers. Contact our team now for a confidential, no-cost consultation to explore your legal rights and next steps toward accountability and recovery. Call 305-715-3300 or reach out online – your voice matters, and help is just one call away.
