Sheriff Darren Campbell stated: On Tuesday March 20, 2018 a report was filed with the Iredell County Sheriff’s Office in reference to a child being sexually assaulted at a local convenience store.

Deputies responded to the location and identified and interviewed several individuals. Written statements were obtained, along with photographs and items of evidence were taken of the scene. Surveillance footage from the store was also gathered and reviewed.

The case was then assigned to Detective P. Dixson of the Special Victim’s Unit for further investigation. The victim was interviewed at the Dove House Children’s Advocacy Center. Based on the interview, additional witness were identified and interviewed.

Rafael Gonzalez Flores was identified as the suspect. Flores was interviewed with the help of an interpreter who translated for Detective Dixson. Surveillance footage from the store was also gathered and reviewed.

As a result of this investigation, Flores was charged with two Felony Counts of Indecent Liberties with a Child. Flores was taken into custody on Tuesday May 22, 2018 and processed at the Iredell County Detention Center where he was given a $75,000 secured bond by Magistrate P. Tutterow.