Texas State Troopers arrested 23-year-old Edgar Perez Hernandez after a multi-state investigation linked him to the abduction and sexual exploitation of a missing juvenile from Tennessee.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office joined the missing person investigation on July 28, 2026, after receiving information that the missing youth might have traveled to Florida. Deputies located the registered owner of the suspect vehicle, who told authorities that his nephew, Perez Hernandez, primarily drove the truck. He also gave officers an address where he believed the vehicle was parked.
When deputies arrived at the residence, they learned that Perez Hernandez and the teenager had already left the property. The agency’s Special Victims Section took over the case immediately.
Detectives located and recovered the missing juvenile later that same day. The victim told investigators that Perez Hernandez sexually abused her at multiple locations across several states, including Hillsborough County, while traveling from Tennessee to Florida. Officials later reunited the teen with her mother.
On July 29, 2026, detectives learned Perez Hernandez was aboard a bus bound 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 took Perez Hernandez into custody.
Perez Hernandez faces multiple charges, including 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 After 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 the determination of our detectives and the strong partnerships we have with agencies across the country, this young victim was safely recovered before the suspect could escape. We remain committed to pursuing those who prey on children, no matter where they run.”
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