Diana Rodríguez, aged 64, was apprehended early Tuesday morning at her residence in the West Flagler area of Miami's Little Havana neighborhood. She faces serious charges concerning sexual activity with a 17-year-old minor, as reported by local media.
The arrest report reveals that the teenager recounted riding his bicycle when Rodríguez, a stranger to him, approached at the junction of Northwest 10th Avenue and West Flagler Street and initiated a conversation.
According to police reports cited by Local 10, Rodríguez allegedly "offered him an unknown white pill and convinced him to follow her."
At the same location, in front of a Valero gas station at 999 West Flagler Street, Rodríguez reportedly suggested performing oral sex on the teenager for $10.
The minor left his bicycle at the gas station and proceeded on foot with the woman.
As they walked westward, the police officer noted in the report that Rodríguez inquired about the teen's age, to which he answered, "17." She allegedly disregarded this and continued.
They eventually arrived at La Esquina Del Pan Con Bistec, a Cuban restaurant at Northwest 12th Avenue and West Flagler Street, in Riverside, Little Havana.
At this point, the teenager got into a car driven by an unknown man with Rodríguez, arriving at her home where the alleged abuse occurred in the living room.
The teen claimed that Rodríguez performed the sexual act twice before he asked her to stop and left the premises.
Apprehension and Accused’s Statement
Miami Police officers arrested Rodríguez shortly after 4:30 a.m. on Tuesday at her residence.
She was booked into the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center near Doral just after 8:10 a.m. the same day.
Initially, Rodríguez denied recognizing the teen when shown a photograph. However, the minor easily identified her through a photo.
Later, as reported by Univision Miami, Rodríguez changed her statement, apologized for lying, and claimed the teen had initially told her he was 17 and later said he was 18. She also argued that everything was consensual.
Legal Charges and Court Proceedings
Rodríguez is facing a serious charge, classified as a second-degree felony in Florida, for illegal sexual activity with a minor, as per Florida Statute §794.05. This statute prohibits such conduct when the accused is 24 years or older and the victim is 16 or 17.
This crime carries a maximum penalty of up to 15 years in prison.
The case will be overseen by Miami-Dade County Circuit Judge Ariel Rodríguez.
During a bond hearing, Judge Mindy S. Glazer set bail at $7,500 and ordered Rodríguez to stay away from the victim.
As of the time of writing, Diana Rodríguez remains incarcerated at the TGK facility.
Frequently Asked Questions About Legal Proceedings in Miami
What are the penalties for illegal sexual activity with a minor in Florida?
In Florida, illegal sexual activity with a minor, especially when the accused is 24 or older and the victim is 16 or 17, is classified as a second-degree felony. It can result in a maximum sentence of up to 15 years in prison.
Who is overseeing the case of Diana Rodríguez?
The case of Diana Rodríguez is being presided over by Miami-Dade County Circuit Judge Ariel Rodríguez.