A South Miami public works employee is under arrest following allegations of rape at the city's maintenance facility. According to reports from NBC Miami, the incident occurred on Monday when Nelson Gomez, 47, allegedly attacked a woman tasked with cleaning the building. The Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office stated the woman was cleaning a bathroom when Gomez, armed with a knife, demanded she perform a sexual act.
The arrest report details that the victim refused the demand, after which Gomez supposedly forced her against a wall to commit the assault. Following the attack, the victim was able to call 911. Deputies responded, discovering a knife in the bathroom which was presumably used in the incident. NBC Miami conveyed that Gomez has denied the allegations but requested to speak to an attorney upon his arrest.
Gomez, employed by the city since August 2017, has been charged with sexual armed battery and is now being held at the Turner Guilford Night Correctional Center without bond. A judge has ordered Gomez to remain in custody.
In light of the arrest, South Miami officials have taken steps to address the situation. "Effective today, he has been placed on Administrative Leave without pay," a city spokesperson confirmed in an interview obtained by Local 10 News. South Miami City Manager, Genaro “Chip” Iglesias, has also publicly addressed the event. "The city is fully cooperating with law enforcement and treating this matter with the utmost seriousness. While the investigation is ongoing, the City will take all appropriate steps in accordance with the law and city policies," Iglesias said. Both the city and the Sheriff's Office are continuing the investigation.
