A lifeguard working aboard the MSC World America cruise ship was arrested in Miami after authorities say he had sexual encounters with a 17-year-old passenger inside his cabin.
Rafael Cayetano Blanco, 38, of Guatemala, was taken into custody on Saturday, Aug. 22, after the massive cruise ship docked at PortMiami, according to an arrest affidavit.
Investigators say Blanco first met the teenage passenger aboard the ship on Aug. 16.
The two allegedly exchanged phone numbers, and later that night, the 17-year-old went to Blanco’s cabin.
According to the affidavit, the two engaged in sexual intercourse.
Authorities say the teenager returned to Blanco’s cabin on Wednesday, Aug. 19, where the two allegedly had sex again.
After being read his Miranda rights, Blanco allegedly admitted to having consensual sexual intercourse with the 17-year-old, according to court documents.
He was arrested and initially transported to the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center in Miami.
Court records show Blanco is facing one count of sexual activity with a minor.
His arrest affidavit also listed an immigration hold.
He is currently being held at the Metro West Detention Center in Miami-Dade County, according to arrest records.
A public defender assigned to represent Blanco did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
MSC Cruises said the company contacted law enforcement as soon as it learned of the allegations.
“On discovery of a breach of conduct by a crew member and an alleged criminal act, we immediately contacted the relevant law enforcement authorities,” a company spokesperson said.
The cruise line said it cooperated fully with investigators and assisted the passenger.
“The crew member concerned has been dismissed,” MSC Cruises added.
According to CruiseMapper, MSC World America left Miami on Aug. 15 for a 15-day round-trip voyage.
The ship returned to PortMiami on Aug. 22, the same day Blanco was arrested, before departing again for Puerto Plata-Amber Cove in the Dominican Republic.
The vessel is scheduled to return to Florida on Aug. 29.
The case remains pending.
American female teenager???
STAY AWAY!!!!!!!!