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Published on May 17, 2024
Miami Man Charged in Vigilante Sting for Attempting to Meet MinorSource: Miami-Dade Corrections and Rehabilitation

A Miami man has been caught in the crosshairs of a "vigilante style" sting operation after seeking to have sex with a minor, as per law enforcement. Moises A. Flores-Coello, 24, was apprehended Wednesday on charges that he intended to meet up with a presumed 15-year-old boy for sexual activities. NBC Miami reports that Flores-Coello had been conversing with an individual on a chatting app who he thought to be a teenage boy.

The Miami-Dade Police said Flores-Coello promptly asked for an address after only a day of messaging on the chatting application, and when he arrived at the location, he met with a male who led him to believe he was the teen. Police documents indicate that he immediately began to "cuddle, kiss, and touch the individual," in a misguided attempt to connect physically with who he believed was a minor, as per Local 10 report.

This operation was not conducted by law enforcement but rather by an undisclosed group aiming to take down child predators. Upon the arrival of police, Flores-Coello was caught with candy and a condom in his possession, evidence that supports his intent, according to the arrest report.

After being confronted by police, he made a confession, parts of which were redacted in the official reports. Local 10 states that Flores-Coello is currently facing charges of illegal use of computer services or devices alongside traveling to meet a minor for unlawful purposes. At present, he is held at Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, with bond details yet to be decided.

Miami-Crime & Emergencies