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NewsNBC 6 South Florida (WTVJ) – Local NewsAugust 24, 2026Miami-Dade

Miami-Dade police arrest cruise ship lifeguard for sexual activity with minor

A 38-year-old lifeguard working on the MSC World America cruise ship was arrested and charged with unlawful sexual activity with a 17-year-old passenger. The suspect was taken into custody at PortMiami and remains in jail under an immigration hold following his confession.

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Read the full story at NBC 6 South Florida (WTVJ) – Local News

Why It Matters

The incident highlights a criminal investigation involving a crew member on a cruise ship operating out of PortMiami, resulting in the suspect's termination and ongoing legal proceedings.

Key Facts

  • Rafael Cayetano Blanco, 38, was arrested on a charge of unlawful sexual activity with a minor.
  • The victim was a 17-year-old passenger on the MSC World America cruise ship.
  • The alleged sexual encounters occurred on the nights of Aug. 16 and Aug. 19.
  • The suspect was arrested on Saturday when the ship returned to PortMiami.
  • The suspect confessed to the acts according to the arrest report.
  • The suspect is currently held in jail under an immigration hold.
  • MSC Cruises has dismissed the crew member involved.
  • MSC Cruises reported the incident to law enforcement upon discovery.

Who's Mentioned

personRafael Cayetano Blanco“The suspect, a 38-year-old lifeguard from Guatemala.”organizationMiami-Dade Sheriff's Office“The law enforcement agency that conducted the arrest.”organizationMSC World America“The cruise ship where the alleged incident occurred.”organizationMiami-Dade Sheriff’s Office“The law enforcement agency that conducted the arrest.”other38“Age of the suspect.”other17“Age of the passenger involved.”locationPortMiami“The home port where the ship returned and the arrest occurred.”