Justice After 11 Years: Suspect Arrested in 2014 Miami Rape Case

More than a decade after a woman was kidnapped and violently assaulted in Miami, police have arrested the man they believe is responsible.

Julio Alvarenga, 49, was taken into custody Wednesday and charged with kidnapping, sexual battery, false imprisonment, and robbery for the January 1, 2014, attack.

“For almost 11 years, we were trying to locate this man,” said Miami Police spokesman Mike Vega. “However, we never gave up.”

According to police, the victim was walking to a train station near Northwest 12th Avenue and 35th Street when Alvarenga allegedly attacked her. She was dragged into a wooded area, punched repeatedly as she screamed for help, and then raped. After a harrowing 90-minute ordeal, she managed to escape and call for help.

DNA from a rape kit taken at the time matched Alvarenga earlier this year, leading to his arrest.

“Sometimes it takes time to get the lead we need,” Vega said. “It took 11 years, but we were able to catch him. The DNA evidence confirms he was the perpetrator.”

Alvarenga was being processed into jail as of Wednesday.

The Miami Police Department emphasized its dedication to bringing criminals to justice. “This case highlights our commitment to solving crimes and holding perpetrators accountable,” the department said in a statement.

Authorities encourage anyone with information about this case or similar crimes to contact the Special Victims Unit at 305-603-6300.