Authorities have reported a troubling case involving a pastor who allegedly sexually assaulted two young girls at a church in Florida. Yersson David Solarte, 33, was apprehended while vacationing with his family in Virginia after victims disclosed continued abuse by him at the Ipul Pentecostal Church in Sanford, Florida.
According to the Sanford Police Department, both victims were members of the church, and Solarte is no longer in his role as pastor.
Police Chief Cecil Smith remarked, “These individuals represent a special class of criminals who exploit their positions of trust to abuse innocent victims.” He expressed hope that there are no additional victims.
One victim recounted to the police that Solarte forced her to sit on his lap and sexually assaulted her multiple times in his office and in the church’s multimedia room. Investigators later spoke with a second victim, who reported that Solarte had also repeatedly abused her in similar locations, forcing kisses and inappropriate behavior.
In a different incident during a “youth council” meeting, Solarte allegedly told a minor, “we are only alive once,” as noted in court documents.
The young girl shared that the pastor had expressed romantic feelings towards her, and he attempted to instill jealousy by showing affection toward her sister. Police indicated that both girls, ages not disclosed, were last abused in early April.
After leaving Florida, authorities worked with various local and out-of-state agencies to apprehend Solarte, who was on what appeared to be a family trip. He faces charges of sexual battery, indecent abuse, and lewd behavior.
Currently, Solarte awaits transfer to Florida for booking at John E. Polk Correctional Facility. Authorities fear there may be more victims and are urging anyone with information to come forward. Chief Smith encouraged anyone who may have knowledge of these crimes to help protect children.
