ICE arrests child predator charged with sexual exploitation of 2 young girls following investigation in Puerto Rico

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico - ICE Homeland Security Investigations special agents arrested Joseph Cruz-Santiago, a 32-year-old man from Caguas, Puerto Rico, on criminal charges related to child exploitation. Cruz-Santiago faces charges on sexual exploitation and coercion and enticement of two female minors, receipt and possession of child exploitation material, and transfer of obscene material to a minor.

Between December 2024 and February 2025, Cruz-Santiago used his cellphone, messaging apps, and social media to entice two young girls, aged 11 to 12, into sexual activity and created explicit images of the abuse. He also received child exploitation material and sent obscene material to the victims online. Additionally, from July 2024 to July 2025, he possessed and viewed child pornography, including explicit material involving minors under 12 years old.

HSI San Juan Special Agent in Charge Rebecca González-Ramos said: "Child predators will find endless ways to manipulate their victims as part of their ill behavior. It's important that we understand the mechanisms they are using and the risks our children have online. Parents and trusted adults must commit to educate themselves about potential threats and the latest online platforms to protect our children from sexual exploitation. Let's all together take a Pledge to Protect."

Read more on Justice.gov.