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.
Rabbi 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.”
Parents who believe their children might have been victimized by Karro are asked to call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS.
