FLORIDA
Local 10
[with video]
Author: Amanda Batchelor, Senior Digital Editor, abatchelor@wplg.com
MIAMI BEACH, Fla. –
A substitute rabbi at a Miami Beach synagogue is facing charges after allegedly inappropriately touching an 11-year-old girl last month.
Steve Karro, 55, was arrested Thursday on charges of lewd and lascivious molestation of a child and lewd and lascivious conduct on a child.
According to an arrest report, Karro, who is a substitute rabbi at Shaare Ezra Sephardic Congregation, intentionally grabbed the buttocks of the victim on April 16 while they were at the Karro Art Gallery.
Police said Karro also kissed the girl’s neck after sitting her on his lap. Police said the rabbi and victim have known one other for five years.
According to detectives, Karro denied some of the allegations, but said he touched the victim’s buttocks for a “cleansing as she was exhibiting negative energy.”
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