A Gainesville man, Alberto Christian Quiroz, aged 32, has admitted guilt in a case involving the attempted enticement of a minor for sexual acts. The announcement was made by United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg. Quiroz could face a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison, although his sentencing date is yet to be determined.
Court documents reveal that Quiroz was employed by a care agency contracted with the Florida Department of Children and Families to provide services for children. On July 26 and 27, 2024, he used an online messaging service to converse with an undercover detective who posed as a 14-year-old girl. Quiroz planned to meet the supposed minor at an Ocala restaurant for sexual activity but was arrested by agents upon arrival.
The investigation involved Homeland Security Investigations, the Ocala Police Department, and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney William S. Hamilton is prosecuting the case.
This prosecution is part of Project Safe Childhood, an initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice aimed at combating child sexual exploitation and abuse. The project utilizes resources from federal, state, and local levels to apprehend individuals exploiting children while also identifying and rescuing victims. More information on Project Safe Childhood can be found at www.justice.gov/psc.