A Boca Raton man faces serious charges after allegedly soliciting videos from someone he believed to be a 14-year-old girl, according to Boynton Beach police. Maximiliano Buitrago, 51, was arrested on charges of solicitation to commit human trafficking and unlawful use of a two-way communication device. Investigators say Buitrago responded to a Craigslist advertisement offering summer babysitting services that had been posted by undercover detectives from the Human Exploitation Unit. He allegedly asked, "Are you trying to make cash any other way? What else can you do?"
According to police, Buitrago repeatedly acknowledged during their communications that he understood the person was 14 years old. He allegedly offered to pay the minor for videos, claiming they would be shown to clients overseas. The suspect continued the conversation with the undercover detective, eventually arranging to meet in person.
On July 16, Buitrago set up a meeting with who he thought was the teenage girl at a park in Boynton Beach. When he arrived at the location, officers took him into custody. During a search of his vehicle, police discovered cards that read, "Make money on TikTok with pics and short videos," which also included an offer to "get paid cash." The discovery of these cards raised concerns among investigators that Buitrago may have approached other young people with similar propositions.
Buitrago confessed to investigators following his arrest and is currently being held at the Palm Beach County jail. Boynton Beach police believe there could be additional victims who may have encountered the suspect. Authorities are asking anyone who might have received one of the cards found in Buitrago's vehicle or who may have communicated with him to come forward. Anyone with information is urged to contact BBPD Detective Joseph at 561-742-6158. The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to identify and arrest individuals who attempt to exploit minors, particularly through online platforms and social media. The Human Exploitation Unit's undercover operation successfully intercepted Buitrago before he could potentially harm an actual minor.