Violin Teacher Charged In Sex Case; More Victims Feared

MIAMI, FL — A 57-year-old violin teacher from Miami-Dade County is accused of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old student in February and Miami-Dade police fear there could be other victims. Joseph Aechange Michel is facing a single charge of sexual battery on a minor. The charge stems from an incident that allegedly took place at Michel's home on Feb. 26..

"Michel, who is a private music instructor, sexually assaulted a juvenile victim during a music lesson at Michel's residence," according to Detective Argemis Colome of the Miami-Dade Police Department. "The victim immediately disclosed the incident to her parent."

Colome said that police are asking other possible victims to notify authorities. Michel lives in the 1000 block of NE 210th Terrace.

"Detectives believe there may be additional victims who have not yet come forward," he said.

Court documents said that Michel allegedly fondled the girl in his living room while giving a music lesson.

"The defendant denied the victim's allegation but stated 'I only touched the victim's pants zipper. And maybe I touched her panties,'" court documents quoted Michel as saying.

To report a tip, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS (8477) or 866-471-8477. Alternatively, visit www.crimestoppersmiami.com and select “Give a Tip” or text "CSMD" followed by the tip information to 274637.

Photo of Joseph Aechange Michel courtesy Miami-Dade Police Department.