In a troubling case involving online child exploitation, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents have arrested a 25-year-old teacher from Carolina, Puerto Rico. The teacher, Raul Moises Martinez Rivera, who worked at a charter school in San Juan, is facing serious criminal charges for allegedly trying to persuade and communicate sexually with a 13-year-old girl.
What Happened?
According to federal investigators, between November and December 2024, Martinez Rivera used his phone and internet messaging services to contact a minor. During this time, he reportedly sent sexually explicit messages and material to the 13-year-old girl and attempted to lure her into engaging in sexual activity.
A federal grand jury reviewed the case and, on April 3, indicted him on two counts — one for coercing and enticing a minor, and the other for transferring obscene content to a minor.
Arrest and Legal Action
ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents arrested Martinez Rivera on April 10. The case is being handled by the Child Exploitation and Immigration Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, with Chief Jenifer Hernandez-Vega and Assistant U.S. Attorney Daynelle Alvarez Lora leading the prosecution.
If Martinez Rivera is found guilty, he faces a minimum of 10 years in federal prison, though the final sentence will be determined by a federal judge based on U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
ICE’s Mission to Protect Children
HSI San Juan Special Agent in Charge, Rebecca González-Ramos, said that protecting children from online predators is one of their top priorities. She also stressed that the accused does not represent the values or dedication of Puerto Rico’s teachers.
HSI continues to take strong action against anyone who tries to use their position of trust to exploit children. Their message is clear: those who prey on minors will be held accountable, no matter their role or status in society.
How You Can Help
If you suspect any suspicious activity related to child exploitation in Puerto Rico, you can call 787-729-6969 or the ICE Tip Line at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE. These services are available for the public to report abuse and help protect vulnerable children from harm.
This case is a reminder that online dangers are real and can come from people in trusted roles, including teachers. Thanks to swift action by ICE and federal prosecutors, the accused has been removed from his position and now faces justice.
It’s important that both parents and communities remain alert and report suspicious behaviour to help protect minors from online predators. Authorities are working hard to ensure that every child remains safe, both offline and online.
