South Florida Man Arrested in Child Exploitation Sting

38-year-old Pembroke Pines resident charged with multiple felonies after attempting to meet who he believed was a 14-year-old girl

Jan. 28, 2026 at 5:55pm

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A 38-year-old Pembroke Pines man, Luis Miguel Manrique, has been arrested and charged with multiple felonies after police say he tried to meet what he believed was a 14-year-old girl during an undercover child exploitation sting. Manrique allegedly contacted an undercover officer posing as a 14-year-old girl, acknowledged her age, made grooming-type comments, and arranged to meet her in person, even offering to bring condoms. Detectives monitored Manrique as he drove to the meeting location and conducted a felony stop, leading to his arrest.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat child exploitation and the dangers of online predators targeting minors. It also raises concerns about the prevalence of these types of crimes and the need for continued vigilance and education to protect vulnerable youth.

The details

According to the affidavit, Manrique first contacted an undercover officer on January 21, believing he was speaking with a 14-year-old girl. He repeatedly acknowledged her age, asked about her school and grade level, and continued the conversation even after being told multiple times that she was 14. Detectives say he made grooming-type comments, including telling the supposed teen he would "take care of her" and comparing her to a daughter. Manrique also displayed controlling behavior, asking whether she talked to boys at school or older men, and offered to buy her food. The affidavit states that Manrique agreed to bring condoms to the encounter and sent a photo showing he had them. Detectives say he arranged to meet the girl at 5 p.m. on January 27 in Miami, where they conducted a felony stop and detained him.

  • On January 21, Manrique first contacted the undercover officer, believing he was speaking with a 14-year-old girl.
  • On January 27, Manrique agreed to meet the supposed 14-year-old girl at 5 p.m. in Miami, where he was arrested.

The players

Luis Miguel Manrique

A 38-year-old Pembroke Pines man who was arrested and charged with multiple felonies related to child exploitation.

Undercover Officer

A law enforcement officer who posed as a 14-year-old girl in order to conduct the sting operation that led to Manrique's arrest.

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What they’re saying

“Detectives say he made grooming-type comments, including telling the supposed teen he would "take care of her" and comparing her to a daughter.”

— Undercover Officer (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

The judge has set bond for Manrique, but he has not yet satisfied the bond. The case remains ongoing, and a separate warrant case is still on hold for the magistrate.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat child exploitation and the dangers of online predators targeting minors. It serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance, education, and continued efforts to protect vulnerable youth from these types of crimes.