On February 14, 2019, Cape Coral Police responded to a call for service in reference to a possible sex crime.

During the initial investigation, it was learned that the victim was under 12-years-old and that a known suspect was involved in the criminal act. Detective Tracy Coons of the Major Crimes Unit responded and took over the investigation.

Through the investigation, it was determined that Eladio Valdes-Gortes (W/M, DOB: 02/12/1942, 1421 SE 39th ST) had been picking up the victim from school three days a week since December. During this time, Valdes-Gortes inappropriately touched the child several times.

Detective Coons completed a warrant request which was submitted to the State Attorney’s Office and subsequently approved. Cape Coral Police Detective Matthew Fordham assigned to the US Marshals Florida Regional Fugitive Task Force located and arrested Valdes-Cortes on the open warrant penned by Detective Tracy Coons.

Valdes-Gortes was later transferred to the Lee County Jail.

ARRESTED: Eladio Valdes-Gortes, W/M, DOB: 02/12/1942, 1421 SE 39th ST

CHARGES: Lewd and Lascivious Behavior on a Victim Under 12-years-old