Pastor accused of molesting 15-year-old girl at NW Miami-Dade church – WSVN 7News | Miami News, Weather, Sports

NORTHWEST MIAMI-DADE, FLA. (WSVN) – Authorities arrested a pastor after, they said, he molested a teenage girl at a church in Northwest Miami-Dade.

According to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, the 15-year-old victim told deputies that she was targeted by Elco Vallier, a pastor at Theophile Church Miami at 15201 NW Seventh Ave.

Investigators said the victim told deputies that Vallier, 50, “fondled her buttocks, rubbed her thigh, and attempted to kiss her on several occasions, while on church grounds.”

In addition, detectives said, the teen’s mother reported reading inappropriate text messages that Vallier sent to her daughter.

Detectives with MDSO’s Special Victims Unit obtained an arrest warrant and, with assistance from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, arrested Vallier at his Loxahatchee home.

He faces charges of lewd and lascivious molestation and lewd and lascivious conduct.

A 7News crew went to the church for reactions to the arrest from parishioners and staff.

One parishioner said she was disturbed by the allegations as she left in her vehicle.

James, a deacon for the church, told 7News off camera that Vallier has since bonded out of jail. He also insisted he knew nothing and had nothing to say about the allegations before he left in his vehicle.

A representative from Theophile Church Miami told 7News off camera they are declining to comment on Vallier’s charges at this time.

7News has also requested an interview with Vallier. His deacon said he would reach out about the request.

Authorities believe there may be more victims, so they urge anyone with information that could help their investigation to contact MDSO at 305-715-3300.

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