Religion Teacher indicted for sex trafficking boys, 15 and 17
A 42-year-old female religion teacher has been arrested for allegedly trafficking two boys, aged 15 and 17, for sex. Lizamarie Rivera-García was taken into custody by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) after being indicted by a grand jury on multiple sex trafficking charges. If convicted, she could face a minimum of 50 years to life in prison.
According to the US Attorney’s Office for the District of Puerto Rico, Rivera-García is accused of recruiting, enticing, transporting, and maintaining the boys for commercial sex acts. The incidents allegedly took place between December 2023 and October 2024 for the 15-year-old and from December 2023 to November 2024 for the 17-year-old.
Rebecca C. Gonzalez-Ramos, the Special Agent in Charge of HSI San Juan, expressed shock at the situation, stating that a person in a position of trust like a religion teacher had planned to sexually assault young individuals. She emphasized the need to remain vigilant against such exploitation of children by individuals in positions of authority.
W. Stephen Muldrow, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico, condemned the actions, highlighting that the sexual exploitation of children deprives them of their freedom, dignity, and security. He stressed that such behavior is unacceptable in society and must be addressed promptly.
The victims, who have not been identified further, will receive the necessary support to help them overcome the trauma they have experienced. The case will be prosecuted by an assistant attorney from the DHS’s Child Exploitation and Immigration Unit.
The arrest of Rivera-García serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting children from exploitation and abuse, particularly by those in positions of authority and trust. Authorities are working diligently to ensure justice is served and that the victims receive the care and assistance they need to recover from this traumatic experience.
