NewsTelemundo 51 Miami – Noticias LocalesAugust 24, 2026Miami-Dade
Miami-Dade Sheriff arrests cruise ship lifeguard for sexual activity with a minor
A cruise ship lifeguard was arrested and charged with illegal sexual activity with a 17-year-old passenger. The suspect, Rafael Cayetano Blanco, was taken into custody by the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office upon the ship's return to PortMiami.
Read the full story at Telemundo 51 Miami – Noticias LocalesWhy It Matters
This incident involves a criminal investigation into the conduct of a cruise ship employee toward a minor passenger, resulting in the employee's arrest and termination.
Key Facts
- Rafael Cayetano Blanco, 38, was arrested by the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office.
- The suspect faces a charge of illegal sexual activity with a 17-year-old minor.
- The alleged incidents occurred on the cruise ship MSC World America.
- Sexual encounters reportedly took place on August 16 and August 19.
- The suspect confessed to the allegations according to the arrest report.
- The suspect is currently held in jail under an immigration hold.
- MSC Cruises confirmed the employee has been fired.
- The cruise line stated they are cooperating with law enforcement and assisting the passenger.
Who's Mentioned
personRafael Cayetano Blanco“38-year-old cruise ship lifeguard arrested for illegal sexual activity with a mi”organizationMiami-Dade Sheriff's Office“Law enforcement agency that conducted the arrest.”organizationMSC World America“Cruise ship where the alleged incident occurred.”other38“Age of the suspect”organizationTelemundo 51“News outlet reporting the incident.”other17“Age of the passenger involved”locationPortMiami“Location where the suspect was detained upon the ship's return.”