Man accused of molesting several girls at local day cares

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orange County deputies arrested a 69-year-old Orlando man on 88 charges of sexual battery on at least five children.

Enrique “Rick” Cuebas is accused of molesting girls at a three unlicensed day cares in the Orlando area.

"It's a shocker. It's a shocker to know he's right next door," said Willie Figueroa, who lives on Spring Breeze Drive, next door to one of the day cares.

One of the victims, a 15-year-old girl, told deputies Cuebas first molested her when she was 4 years old and again when she was between 7 and 8.

The girl told investigators the abuse happened when her mother dropped her off at a day care Cuebas’ wife ran out of their home.

The girl said Cuebas would come into the restroom with her and once inside, she said he would make her touch him inappropriately.

Another victim, a 6-year-old girl, told investigators Cuebas would also make her touch his genitals in the bathroom at his home.

The girl said he would give her candy and told her not to tell anyone or he would get in trouble.

Authorities said they uncovered more victims during their investigation.

Cuebas is charged with lewd and lascivious molestation, among other charges. He’s being held in the Orange County Jail without bond.

According to investigators, Cuebas forced children as young as three to go into a separate room with him and touch him up to six times a day, while they were being taken care of at the illegal day cares his girlfriend was running.

One neighbor, who lives next to another of the day cares, said she didn't believe the charges.

"I don't think so. They babysit my grandkids. No, no, no," said Ida Fraticeli.

Investigators said they believe there may be more victims and are asking anyone with information to come forward.

The Florida Department of Children and Families said the three day cares have been shut down.

Cuebas is in the Orange County Jail on a no-bond status.

WFTV