A Republican political activist in Florida has asserted his right to privacy following his arrest for allegedly agreeing to pay $60 for sex to an undercover officer. Ernesto Martin, a prominent activist in Hialeah, was arrested on Thursday during an undercover prostitution sting, according to reports.
Martin, who has collaborated with Hialeah's Republican Mayor Bryan Calvo, stated, "My shame is reserved for my family, and those who are close to me, but you know the rest is my private life, and my intimacy is of no one's importance." He is facing a misdemeanor charge after responding to an online advertisement for escort services. His arrest report indicates he verbally agreed to pay for sex and met the officer at a designated location, where he allegedly provided $60 before being taken into custody.
In a statement released in Spanish and translated to English, Martin acknowledged the situation and accepted responsibility. "In recent days, I have gone through a difficult situation," the statement read. "What I do in my private life is private and is my own issue. However, I am not going to avoid my responsibility. I will accept whatever consequences the law determines with the same determination with which I have always faced every stage of my life."
Martin added that he has never sought to present himself as a perfect individual, describing himself as a human being with strengths and flaws. He vowed to face all situations head-on, take responsibility for his actions, and work towards self-improvement.
According to Martin's LinkedIn profile, he entered the political field in 2024, initially serving as an assistant for the city of Hialeah before contributing to Mayor Calvo's campaign. His work history also shows he acted as a political advisor to Emilio T. Gonzalez, a Republican candidate for mayor, in 2025. Martin declined to comment on the specifics of the case when approached by NBC6.