Authorities now believe Miss Puerto Rico was actually poisoned by pepper spray during the beauty contest; they even suspect a pageant volunteer.

"Miss Puerto Rico Universe was speaking the truth," said San Juan police spokesman Lt. Eddie Hernandez. "She was being sincere about the allegations."

Initially, Rivera's claims that someone had pepper-sprayed her black gown and bathing suit during the competition were met with some skepticism; cops announced earlier this month that an initial investigation found no traces of the spray.

But after conducting interviews, police now believe a perpetrator did spray the dress. They haven't identified the suspect or the motive, while the DA has not decided whether or not to file charges.