Edgar Perez Hernandez, 23, was apprehended by Texas State Troopers following a multi-state investigation that tied him to the abduction and sexual exploitation of a missing juvenile from Tennessee.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office entered the missing person inquiry on July 28, 2026, after obtaining information that the missing kid had traveled to Florida. Deputies tracked down the registered owner of the suspect vehicle, who told authorities that his nephew, Perez Hernandez, primarily drove the truck. He also provided officers with the address where he believed the vehicle was parked.
When deputies arrived, they discovered that Perez Hernandez and the juvenile had already departed the property. The matter was promptly taken over by the agency’s Special Victims Section.
Later that day, detectives identified and recovered the missing youngster. The woman told police that Perez Hernandez sexually abused her in many states, including Hillsborough County, while traveling from Tennessee to Florida. Officials eventually reunited the teen with her mother.
On July 29, 2026, detectives discovered that Perez Hernandez was on a bus going for Mexico in an attempt to flee the country. The Texas Department of Public Safety intercepted the bus during a traffic stop, and state troopers detained Perez Hernandez.
Perez Hernandez is charged with Interference with Child Custody, Lewd or Lascivious Molestation, Lewd or Lascivious Conduct, Use of Computer Services or Devices to Solicit Certain Illegal Acts, Traveling to Meet a Minor Following Use of Computer Services or Devices to Solicit Certain Illegal Acts, Unlawful Use of a Two-Way Communication Device, and four counts of Sexual Battery.
“This case is an example of how quickly law enforcement agencies can come together across state lines to protect a child and hold a dangerous offender accountable,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Because of our detectives’ dedication and the good relationships we have with organizations across the country, this young victim was safely found before the suspect could flee. We remain determined to pursue individuals who prey on children, no matter where they flee.”
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