MIAMI — A 33‑year‑old psychotherapist was arrested Tuesday after two women reported that he assaulted them during private sessions at a residential mental‑health and substance‑abuse program in Miami.
Investigators say Manuel Enrique Garcia faces three felony counts of psychotherapist engaging in sex with a client. Each third‑degree felony carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and permanent loss of professional licensure.
Victim 1 (40s): According to the arrest report, Garcia began stroking her hair during a one‑on‑one session earlier this year, then raped her and threatened to sabotage her housing and employment prospects if she spoke out.
Victim 2 (mid‑20s): She told detectives Garcia twice forced her to perform oral sex—recording one incident—after luring her into his office on the pretext of retrieving personal items. She feared negative therapy notes would delay her discharge and reunion with her child.
Statements from other residents describing similar behavior corroborated the allegations. Miami’s Felony Apprehension Team took Garcia into custody; he is being held at Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center awaiting a bond hearing.
Detectives believe additional victims may exist and urge anyone with information to contact the Special Victims Unit at 305‑603‑6300 or 305‑579‑6111. Police emphasized that the safety and well‑being of all patients remain their top priority and offered support services to anyone who comes forward.
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