A 54-year-old nonprofit leader described by Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office officials as a “trusted member of the community” was arrested March 25 on charges of lewd and lascivious conduct involving a 15-year-old girl. Shaya Lunger, also known as Yona Lunger, allegedly entered the teen’s bedroom at her northeast Miami-Dade home, closed the door and made inappropriate advances. Records show Lunger serves as the registered agent of the Chesed of South Florida nonprofit organization.
According to the arrest report, Lunger told the victim to “put away her sexy things,” referring to her “breast area,” then hugged and kissed her multiple times. The incident occurred at the girl’s home, where Lunger allegedly kissed the teen near her lips and asked her to kiss him back before leaving her room. Deputies said Lunger had “expressed a desire for the victim to turn eighteen years old on multiple interactions with the victim.”
“My client looks forward to the true facts coming out,” said Bruce Lehr, Lunger’s attorney, in a statement. “In reality, this is a prime example of no good deed goes unpunished.” Lunger denied the allegations when questioned by detectives, telling them “it is all a lie,” according to the arrest report.
Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Bureau detectives became aware of the incident March 24 and interviewed the teen before making the arrest. The sheriff’s office noted that Lunger has access to minors through his community work. Lunger bonded out of jail Wednesday night and was ordered to stay away from the underage victim.
Detectives are asking anyone who was victimized by Lunger to contact the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Bureau at 305-715-3300. Those who wish to remain anonymous may call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-8477.