An undocumented immigrant has been apprehended after a 14-year-old girl in Florida reported being sexually assaulted by him multiple times. The individual, 53-year-old Eduardo Rivera-Villarreal, is facing charges of trafficking, indecent battery, and rape involving minors.
According to the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, Rivera-Villarreal met the teenager and allegedly propositioned her for sex, offering payment in return. It’s reported that he continued to have contact with the girl, paying her with cash and alcohol. Disturbingly, at one point, he purportedly forced her to perform sexual acts against her will.
Following one of their meetings, the girl, having consumed alcohol provided by Rivera-Villarreal, was taken to a hospital by another adult. It was there that she disclosed the incidents. This led to Rivera-Villarreal’s swift arrest by detectives.
Pasco Sheriff Chris Nocco noted that this case marks the second instance this year of illegal immigrants being accused of sexually assaulting minors. He expressed concern for the young girl, emphasizing her value and worthiness of love and protection.
Rivera-Villarreal had been released into the community after entering the U.S. unlawfully under the current administration. He later relocated to Colorado, where he obtained a driver’s license and encountered local law enforcement for traffic violations.
After his arrest in Florida, Rivera-Villarreal expressed fear of returning to Venezuela, stating that a cartel was pursuing him. Sheriff Nocco assured the public that the suspect would face significant legal consequences.
The Sheriff’s Office intends to investigate the company that employed Rivera-Villarreal as a delivery driver and will relay their findings to the Department of Homeland Security.
Meanwhile, Sheriff Nocco confirmed that support and resources would be made available to the young victim.
