HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – A 28-year-old Tampa man is behind bars following an investigation into an ongoing inappropriate relationship with a teenager, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.
Raul Suarez Vergel was arrested on May 24, 2026, after detectives uncovered evidence that he engaged in sexual activity with a 17-year-old victim multiple times throughout the month of May.
During police interrogation, Vergel admitted to recording the encounters and sending the video files directly to the minor. As detectives dug deeper into the case, they discovered the unlawful relationship had been going on since January 2026.
Vergel now faces multiple charges, including two counts of unlawful sexual activity with a minor.
“The exploitation of a minor is unacceptable and deeply concerning,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Our detectives worked quickly to investigate these allegations and protect the victim from further harm.”
Vergel remains in custody as the legal process moves forward.
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