A Miami-Dade volleyball coach has been taken into custody on allegations that he sexually molested a 16-year-old girl. The coach, identified as Carlos Ismel Cruz Concepcion, 31, reportedly engaged in inappropriate conduct while he was employed at BridgePrep Academy of Village Green, as per Local 10 News.
Authorities allege that Concepcion fondled the teenager's genital area over her clothing multiple times last year on the school's premises, located at 13300 SW 120th St. Detained yesterday, Concepcion denied any intentional wrongdoing during an interrogation, according to statements obtained by Local 10 News.
The Miami-Dade Police Department announced that Concepcion faces a charge of lewd and lascivious molestation of a child between 12 and 16 years old. Additional findings from the investigation revealed past misconduct, leading to Concepcion's dismissal from BridgePrep Academy for sending inappropriate messages to other minors. Although fired, it was learned during the probe he currently continues to coach at Divine Savior Academy and 305 Volleyball, prompting concerns over his continued contact with young athletes.
After the allegations surfaced, Concepcion responded to the Miami-Dade Police's Special Victims Bureau for questioning. "It was accidental," Concepcion told police after being read his Miranda rights, as per an arrest document cited by CBS News Miami. He finds himself now incarcerated at Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center and could potentially face more accusations as detectives actively search for additional victims.
The police encourage anyone with further information on Concepcion or other potential victims to contact (305) 715-3300. The investigation continues.
