On August 21, 2025, Honduras’ Technical Criminal Investigation Agency (ATIC) arrested evangelical pastor Denis Javier Erazo Cruz in Tegucigalpa, Francisco Morazán for heinous crimes against an 11-year-old girl.
The Special Prosecutor’s Office for the Protection of Children (FEP-NIÑEZ) has charged him with:
Continuous aggravated sexual assault
Continuous aggravated rape
Aggravated unlawful deprivation of liberty against a minor
Investigators revealed the victim was taken into the pastor’s home under the guise of “support.” Instead, she was locked up, forced into domestic labor, and subjected to sexual abuse almost daily. Each time, she was forced to take a white pill - a tactic predators often use to control, sedate, and silence their victims.
In a powerful act of courage, the child escaped, reported the crimes, and her testimony led to his arrest.This is not just justice. This is a wake-up call to everyone.
Aerial Recovery’s Role
Aerial Recovery was specifically requested to assist with rescue support, aftercare, and follow-up investigation in this case.
This arrest highlights the impact of our daily training efforts in Honduras. By investing into local teams like Ministerio Publico Honduras and equipping them with elite Special Operations strategies, we are helping multiply their effectiveness and save more lives.
Every single day, your support allows us to train, equip, and stand alongside these brave men and women who are stopping evil at its source.
Protecting Your Children: 5 Critical Questions Every Parent Must Ask
Predators often come disguised as trusted figures - pastors, teachers, coaches, neighbors, or even family or friends.
Empower your kids by arming them with knowledge and language that keeps them safe.
IT IS CRITICAL TO BE A SAFE SPACE FOR YOUR CHILDREN IN ORDER FOR THEM TO FELL COMFORTABLE AND SHARE. SHAME CAUSES PEOPLE TO STAY IN SILENCE AND CONTINUES CYCLES OF ABUSE.
Ask your children these 5 key questions regularly:
“Do you know that you can always come to me, no matter what, and you won’t get in trouble?”
“Has anyone or is anyone asking you to keep a secret from me?”
“Has anyone ever touched you or talked to you in a way that makes you feel uncomfortable?”
“Do you feel safe with the people you spend time with - even if they’re people we know or are related to?”
“If someone you trust asked you to do something that feels wrong, what would you do?”
Reassure your kids that you are a safe place for them to have conversations about anything. Conversations save lives. Silence puts them at risk.
Stand With Us
Every rescue, every survivor, every arrest like this is made possible because people like you choose to stand against evil. Together, we can end exploitation, protect the vulnerable, and restore hope.
🔗 Learn More About Protecting Children - sign up for information on our "Protect your Kids" course.
Aerial Recovery. Save Lives & Stop Evil.
