Manuel Cruz, a Miami-Dade County, Florida high school teacher, was arrested recently after he allegedly punched a 17-year-old girl in the face and raped her, news sources report. The victim's identity was not revealed in reports. Cruz, 53, was booked into the Miami-Dade County Jail on charges of sexual assault against a minor and simple battery. It is unclear whether he has qualified for bail bond or hired a lawyer.
Reports say Cruz is a high school teacher at Hialeah High School, located off East 47th Street in Miami-Dade County. It is unclear whether Cruz has faced similar accusations in the past or if the school has released a statement regarding these recent allegations. It also remains to be seen whether Cruz will face suspension or termination pending the outcome of the case.
The alleged incident occurred on December 20, 2012. The victim was at Cruz's home on invitation at the time, sources say; it appears as though she went to the home voluntarily. During her stay, the victim claims she drank alcohol and smoked marijuana provided by Cruz. She also says Cruz asked to have sex with her, but she reportedly told him no.
The victim says that after she rejected Cruz's advances, Cruz struck her in the face with his fist, which left her unconscious. He then allegedly raped her while she was out. It is not clear whether the victim sought medical treatment (perhaps resulting in biological evidence) after the alleged assault.
Police questioned Cruz at the Hialeah Police Department sometime after the incident and he admitted to the assault, reports say. Cruz reportedly told officers that he had been drinking prior and during the assault. It is unclear whether the victim was one of Cruz's students at Hialeah High School or if he knew her from somewhere else.
In other news, Deandre Wilson of Riviera Beach was arrested Friday after he allegedly shot a man during a verbal dispute in the presence of an infant, reports say. Wilson, 23, was booked into police custody on charges of carrying a concealed weapon, home invasion with a firearm, larceny, and attempted murder. He was being held without bail. It is unclear if he has hired legal representation.