Miami-Dade Sheriff's Deputy Arrested in Sting Operation

Deputy Christopher Jorge Diaz charged with simple battery after attempting to meet 15-year-old girl

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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A 50-year-old Miami-Dade sheriff's deputy was arrested outside a Delray Beach movie theater after being caught attempting to meet a 15-year-old girl in a sting operation conducted by a private predator-catching group. The deputy, Christopher Jorge Diaz, had made contact with the group's 24-year-old member on dating sites and engaged in sexually charged interactions before agreeing to meet her, unaware she was part of the sting.

Why it matters

The arrest of a law enforcement officer for attempting to meet a minor for sexual purposes raises serious concerns about abuse of power and public trust. It also highlights the ongoing efforts by private groups to catch online predators, which can lead to controversial sting operations.

The details

According to the arrest report, Diaz told the undercover member 'I want to kiss you' when they met at the IPIC Theater in Delray Beach, ignoring her statement that she was nervous. The woman said Diaz was 'touching her all over her upper chest, to include her breasts.' As they left the theater, Diaz was confronted by the 561 Predator Catcher group that had set up the sting.

  • On February 16, 2026, Diaz was arrested outside the IPIC Theater in Delray Beach.

The players

Christopher Jorge Diaz

A 50-year-old Miami-Dade sheriff's deputy who was arrested for attempting to meet a 15-year-old girl in a sting operation.

Rosie Cordero-Stutz

The Miami-Dade Sheriff who said she was 'outraged' by Diaz's conduct and directed that termination proceedings begin immediately.

561 Predator Catcher

A private group that conducted the sting operation and confronted Diaz as he left the theater.

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What they’re saying

“I want to kiss you”

— Christopher Jorge Diaz, Miami-Dade Sheriff's Deputy (Delray Beach Police Department)

“Diaz was touching her all over her upper chest, to include her breasts.”

— Undercover Member (Delray Beach Police Department)

“I was outraged at the deputy's conduct.”

— Rosie Cordero-Stutz, Miami-Dade Sheriff (sun-sentinel.com)

What’s next

Diaz pleaded not guilty to the simple battery charge. The judge will decide on his bail and whether he will be allowed to remain free pending trial.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing problem of law enforcement officers abusing their positions of trust and power, and the important role that private groups play in catching online predators, even if their methods are controversial. It raises questions about oversight and accountability within law enforcement agencies.