By Palm Beach Mugshots
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – A 45-year-old Palm Beach County man is facing two counts of lewd or lascivious molestation after authorities say he inappropriately touched two girls, ages 5 and 8, while they were watching television at a relative’s home.
The girls’ mother, who had been dating the suspect for approximately three years, told investigators she walked into the living room and saw the man’s hand resting on the 5-year-old in an area no adult should ever touch. She immediately confronted him, and he quickly removed his hand. The mother then checked on the 8-year-old, who was crying and later disclosed that the man had touched her over her clothing while they were on the couch.
During a recorded interview with detectives, the suspect initially denied the allegations but later admitted to the conduct. He reportedly told investigators he placed his hand on both girls’ areas, demonstrated the actions, and acknowledged that the touching was inappropriate. He stated his intentions were not s3xual but blamed alcohol for his behavior, noting it had happened once before when he was intoxicated. The man voluntarily provided a DNA sample to investigators.
The suspect, identified in the report as Jose Diaz , was arrested on May 31, 2026, and charged with two felony counts under Florida Statute 800.04(5)(b) — lewd or lascivious molst of a victim under 12 by an offender 18 or older. Each count is classified as a life felony (Level 9 offense).
He was transported to the Palm Beach County Jail. Court records indicate “No Bond” was set on both charges.The affidavit was sworn by Detective Andres Rodriguez and notarized by Detective Carlos Rojas on May 31, 2026.Victim information has been redacted in accordance with Marsy’s Law and Florida statutes protecting minors who are victims of sexual offenses.
This is an ongoing case. The suspect is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.