Miami Pastor Elco Vallier Arrested After Teen’s Complaint, Facing Lewd Or Lascivious Offense Charges

Arrest follows investigation by Special Victims Unit

A Miami pastor has been arrested on allegations involving inappropriate contact with a 15-year-old girl, after a criminal investigation led to an arrest warrant and his subsequent detention in Palm Beach County.

The suspect was identified by law enforcement as Elco Vallier, 50, described as a pastor at Theophile Church in Miami. The reported incident was said to have occurred at the church property at 15201 NW 7th Avenue.

What investigators say was reported

Investigators said the teen reported that the pastor inappropriately touched her and attempted to kiss her on multiple occasions. Authorities also said the teen’s mother reported concerns after seeing text messages she considered inappropriate.

Based on the investigation, Special Victims Unit detectives obtained an arrest warrant. Vallier, who law enforcement said lives in Loxahatchee, was arrested with assistance from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office on the Miami-Dade warrant.

• Suspect: Elco Vallier, 50
• Reported location of incident: Theophile Church, 15201 NW 7th Avenue, Miami
• Victim’s age: 15
• Arrest location: Palm Beach County (assistance provided during arrest)

Charges filed

Authorities said Vallier was charged with Lewd or Lascivious Molestation and Lewd or Lascivious Conduct. The case remains under investigation.

Investigators asked anyone with information—or parents whose children may have had contact with Vallier—to contact the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Unit at (305) 715-3300.

What happens next

In Florida criminal cases, charges are followed by court proceedings that may include first appearance hearings, conditions of release, and later hearings addressing evidence and the prosecution’s allegations. As with any criminal case, the suspect is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

Law enforcement has not publicly detailed additional allegations beyond the teen’s report and the reference to messages reviewed by a parent. Officials have indicated the investigation is ongoing and are seeking information that could help determine whether there are additional complainants or corroborating evidence.