Florida Pastor Accused of Sexually Assaulting Two Girls at Church, Allegedly Saying ‘We Only Live Once’

A Florida pastor has been arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting two young girls within the confines of his church, reportedly telling one of the victims, “we only live once” during the disturbing incidents, according to law enforcement officials.

Yersson David Solarte, 33, was apprehended on Wednesday while vacationing with his family in Virginia. This arrest followed reports from the underage girls detailing the repeated abuse they suffered at the IPUL Pentecostal Church in Sanford, Florida, as stated by the Sanford Police Department.

Both victims were active members of the church, where Solarte is no longer allowed to serve. Police Chief Cecil Smith expressed grave concern over the situation, stating, “People like this are a special class of criminal, who use their position of trust to prey on innocent victims.” He added, “Solarte is now behind bars where he belongs. We pray there aren’t any additional people who have been victimized by this man.”

According to an arrest affidavit obtained by the Miami Herald, one of the girls reported that Solarte forced her to sit on his lap and sexually assaulted her multiple times in both his office and the church’s multimedia room. This alarming behavior was not isolated, as investigators later identified a second victim who recounted similar experiences. She described how Solarte molested her in his office, even telling her they were a “couple” after he forcefully kissed her and unzipped his pants, disregarding her pleas to call her mother.

In another troubling incident, the alleged predator reportedly threw himself at the minor during a “juvenile meeting,” declaring, “We only live once,” as documented in court records. The young girl also informed police that Solarte had expressed romantic feelings toward her. When she rejected his advances, he attempted to provoke jealousy by showing affection to her sister.

Authorities revealed that both girls, whose ages have not been disclosed, were last abused on April 7. Following the reports, law enforcement coordinated with local and out-of-state agencies to apprehend Solarte after he had left Florida for what was believed to be a family trip.

Solarte now faces serious charges, including sexual battery and lewd and lascivious molestation. He is currently awaiting transfer back to Florida, where he will be booked at the John E. Polk Correctional Facility, as confirmed by police.

Authorities are concerned that there may be additional victims and are urging anyone with information to come forward. Chief Smith emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating, “If anyone has information about these crimes, or other victims, come forward and help protect our children.”