August 7, 2025

Doral Woman Arrested for Fraudulent Spiritual Cleansing Scheme

News Summary

A 67-year-old woman in Doral was arrested for allegedly scamming a victim out of $3,000 through a fake spiritual cleansing ritual. The victim was manipulated into believing he needed a deeper cleansing and was promised double his money after handing over cash. Initial investigations revealed a pattern of fraudulent behavior and false identities associated with the accused.

Doral Woman Arrested for $3,000 Fraud through Fake Spiritual Cleansing Ritual

Florida – A 67-year-old woman named Carmen Valdez De Miguel, also known as Maria Rodriguez, was arrested in Doral for allegedly defrauding a man out of $3,000 through a fraudulent spiritual cleansing ritual. The arrest took place on Monday at her residence in the AMLI 8800 apartments. She faces multiple charges, including organized scheme to defraud, grand theft, and resisting an officer without violence.

The investigation commenced after the victim reported to the police that he had been scammed. It all began on March 11, when the victim discovered a tarot card reading flyer affixed to his car, which led him to contact Valdez De Miguel for a reading. The initial session, held on March 13, was offered at a price of $20.

During the first reading, Valdez De Miguel allegedly told the victim that he required a “deeper spiritual cleansing,” which would entail a fee ranging from $600 to $700. The victim agreed to proceed and transferred her $200 using the Zelle payment service. Following this, on March 14, the victim attended another session for the cleansing ritual, where Valdez De Miguel asked about his bank balance. Upon learning that the victim had $8,000, she instructed him to bring in the full amount, assuring him that she would double it through the ritual and return the money the same day.

Subsequently, on March 19, the victim returned with $3,000 in cash. During the ritual, Valdez De Miguel allegedly placed the money inside a bag with eggs, but when the bag was opened, only broken eggs and worms were found, and the cash was missing. Initially, Valdez De Miguel appeared shocked and promised to return the money the next day. However, she later claimed the money was tied to the ritual and could not be released until the accompanying candles had burned out entirely.

Valdez De Miguel’s arrest unfolded when officers responded to the victim’s report. During the arrest, she reportedly resisted by pulling away from officers, dropping to the ground, and attempting to flee. Once in custody, she exhibited erratic behavior and claimed to have a fever, necessitating a transport to a hospital for evaluation before being questioned by authorities.

This incident follows a pattern of behavior for Valdez De Miguel, who allegedly has a history of using false identities. Law enforcement indicated that there are active warrants out for her under an alias, further complicating her legal troubles.

The police encourage anyone with additional information about Valdez De Miguel’s activities or similar incidents to reach out to local authorities. Victims of such scams are reminded to report incidents promptly to ensure that they are properly investigated.

Fraudulent schemes, particularly those involving spiritual or psychological manipulation, can have serious financial and emotional repercussions for victims. It is crucial for individuals to remain vigilant and skeptical of offers that seem to promise unrealistic returns or outcomes.

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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER

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