Miami-Dade Pastor Arrested on Molestation Charges

A Miami-Dade pastor has been arrested following allegations that he molested a teenage girl at his church.

Elco Vallier, 50, a pastor at Theophile Church Miami, was taken into custody last week in Palm Beach County on a Miami-Dade warrant. He faces charges of lewd and lascivious molestation and lewd conduct involving a minor.

According to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office, the 15-year-old victim told investigators that Vallier fondled her buttocks, rubbed her thighs, and attempted to kiss her multiple times while on church grounds. The alleged conduct reportedly began when the girl was 13.

The victim’s mother became suspicious after reading text messages Vallier allegedly sent to her daughter, including messages expressing love and calling her “beautiful.” Investigators say the teen admitted Vallier had touched her inappropriately.

Detectives later arranged a controlled phone call in which the teen confronted Vallier about the alleged touching and inappropriate texts. According to the arrest warrant, Vallier did not deny the accusations during the call.

Vallier, who resides in Loxahatchee, was arrested with assistance from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and transported to face charges.

Authorities are asking anyone with information — including parents of children who may have had contact with Vallier — to contact Miami-Dade detectives at 305-715-3300.

The investigation remains ongoing.