South Miami Employee Arrested for Alleged Rape of Custodian at Work

By Ronald Rodriguez Last updated Sep 17, 2025

Miami-Dade County, Fla. – A disturbing incident has unfolded in South Miami where a 47-year-old city employee, Nelson Gomez, was arrested on Monday following allegations of sexual assault against a custodian at his workplace. The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office reported that Gomez allegedly raped the victim while she was cleaning a bathroom in the same building.The assault reportedly took place around 10 a.m. on Monday. Authorities confirmed that Gomez entered the bathroom armed with a knife, forced the victim into a violent sexual attack, and fled before law enforcement arrived. This has raised serious concerns about safety and security within South Miami’s municipal buildings.

The Alleged Incident Details

According to the arrest report, the victim was performing routine cleaning duties in a bathroom when Gomez confronted her with a knife, demanding oral sex. Upon refusal, Gomez allegedly pinned the victim against the wall and raped her. After the assault, the victim promptly contacted authorities.

On arrival, deputies discovered a knife in the bathroom, consistent with the victim’s statement. Despite the evidence, Gomez denied any physical confrontation during questioning but requested legal representation when informed a sexual crimes detective was present.

Official Responses and Legal Status

South Miami City Manager Genaro “Chip” Iglesias issued an official statement emphasizing the city’s commitment to fully cooperate with law enforcement and uphold legal and policy standards throughout the ongoing investigation:

“The city is fully cooperating with law enforcement and treating this matter with the utmost seriousness. While the investigation is ongoing, the City will take all appropriate steps in accordance with the law and city policies.We remain committed to transparency and cooperation with law enforcement to ensure a thorough outcome. We understand any community concerns and share the seriousness with which they view this matter. We ask for the public’s understanding and patience as this process moves forward.”

A city spokesperson confirmed that Gomez has been employed with South Miami since August 2017 and that, as of Tuesday, he has been placed on administrative leave without pay.

Nelson Gomez is currently held without bond at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center and faces a charge of armed sexual battery.

Community Safety and Moving Forward

This case puts a spotlight on workplace safety protocols and the necessary measures to protect employees, especially those in vulnerable positions such as custodial staff. The city’s swift administrative actions underscore the gravity of the allegations and their approach to ensuring due process.

Incident time: Approximately 10 a.m. on Monday
Location: Redacted but confirmed as a South Miami municipal building
Suspect: Nelson Gomez, 47-year-old city employee
Charges: Armed sexual battery
Employment status: Employed since August 2017, now on unpaid administrative leave
Detention: Held without bond at Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center

For further details, see the original report by Local 10 News here.

The community is encouraged to stay informed and vigilant as authorities continue investigating this serious crime affecting workplace safety standards.

What Do You Think?

What steps do you believe local governments should take to improve workplace security for all employees? Have you experienced or witnessed similar situations at work? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below to increase awareness and foster a safer environment for everyone.