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Florida Keys Man Faces Multiple Charges After 5-Year-Old Left Unattended At Resort

MONROE COUNTY, Fla. – Luis Fernando Del Ra Ortiz, 50, was arrested on May 5, 2026, at Gilbert’s Resort in Key Largo after authorities say he left a five-year-old child alone at a beach and swim area for several hours while he consumed alcohol at a bar.

Ortiz is charged with child neglect, disorderly intoxication, resisting arrest, battery, and assault.

The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office responded to the resort at approximately 3:30 p.m. following reports of an intoxicated man causing a disturbance. Resort staff had reportedly been caring for the child after discovering the minor was unattended.

When the resort stopped serving Ortiz and confronted him about the child, he allegedly became belligerent, shouted at staff, and threatened employees with a firearm, though no weapon was brandished.

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During the incident, Ortiz grabbed a resort employee and boarded a docked vessel with the child. Employees stated they intervened due to concerns that Ortiz might attempt to operate the boat while impaired.

Deputies reported that Ortiz admitted to being intoxicated and continued to yell at staff during the investigation. According to arrest records, he refused orders to calm down, resisted being handcuffed, and struggled with deputies while being placed in a patrol car.

The child sustained no serious injuries and was released to a family member. The Florida Department of Children and Families has been notified of the incident, and Ortiz was transported to jail.

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