PUNTA GORDA, Fla. – A 20-year-old Bradenton man is behind bars after a family in Punta Gorda discovered his communications with a 13-year-old girl and intercepted him as he returned to their home. Kevin Lopez Perez was arrested on Friday, March 27, 2026, by the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit and is being held without bond.
Perez is facing two second-degree felony charges:
- Lewd or Lascivious Battery (Victim 12–15 years old)
- Traveling to Meet a Minor after using a computer to lure a child
Investigation and Arrest
The investigation revealed that Perez originally traveled to the 2500 block of Luther Road in December 2025 to meet the victim. Detectives confirmed a sexual encounter occurred during that initial visit. The relationship was eventually discovered by the victim’s family, who took immediate action when Perez reappeared.
On the evening of March 26, Perez returned to the victim’s residence seeking another encounter. The family intercepted him and contacted the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies located Perez in his vehicle near the home and took him into custody without incident. During a subsequent interview with detectives, Perez admitted to having sexual intercourse with the minor.
Statement from Sheriff Bill Prummell
Sheriff Prummell praised the family for their vigilance and quick response in alerting authorities…