MIAMI, FL – A Miami-Dade County sheriff’s deputy was arrested Wednesday on federal charges of child exploitation after authorities alleged she exchanged sexually explicit material with a minor and engaged in a sexual relationship with her.
Federal prosecutors charged Carle Miranda Blum, 51, with receiving and producing visual depictions involving the sexual exploitation of a minor. According to court documents, Blum is accused of recording herself in sexual acts with a 17-year-old girl and traveling between states to maintain contact with her.
Investigators allege that the inappropriate relationship began when the girl was underage, with Blum exchanging graphic videos and messages of a sexual nature. The evidence reportedly includes numerous videos depicting Blum and the girl, some of which show acts of violence.
The case came to the attention of authorities after a tip was received on July 14, indicating a possible relationship between Blum and the minor. Shortly after turning 18, the teenager was reportedly intercepted at an airport as she attempted to fly to Miami. She was subsequently placed under mental health observation.
Officials obtained the girl’s cellphone, discovering multiple explicit videos and messages exchanged with Blum. Some of the footage reportedly showed Blum choking the teenager. Authorities disclosed that Blum referred to the girl as her “wife” and frequently messaged her with countdowns to her 18th birthday, pledging to marry her.
In addition to the explicit imagery, the alleged text exchanges included threats and violent language from Blum, especially when the young woman attempted to end their contact. Investigators cited messages in which Blum issued warnings with deeply disturbing content, threatening harm if the relationship ended.
Authorities also learned of plans for Blum to visit the girl in Atlanta after the latter was released from medical care. Blum was taken into custody in Atlanta on Wednesday.
Law enforcement officials have described the charges as unprecedented and deeply troubling, emphasizing that such conduct is a grave breach of public trust.
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities urging anyone with additional information to come forward.
Blum has since been moved to federal custody, where she awaits further legal proceedings related to the child exploitation charges. No court date has yet been announced.
A spokesperson for the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office stated that the department is cooperating fully with federal authorities and expressed shock over the allegations.
The teenager’s wellbeing continues to be monitored, with officials noting a significant decline in her mental health during the period of the alleged exploitation.