Bradenton Man Accused of Trying to Meet 13-Year-Old Girl for Sex

Detectives say the man drove from Bradenton to Punta Gorda, but the child's parents stepped in.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 9:50am

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A 20-year-old Bradenton man has been arrested and charged with second-degree felony counts of lewd or lascivious battery and traveling to meet a minor after using a computer to lure a child. Investigators say Kevin Lopez Perez sexually abused a 13-year-old girl in December, and when he returned to the girl's Punta Gorda home on Thursday for another encounter, the girl's parents were waiting for him and called the police.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of online predators targeting minors and the importance of parental vigilance in protecting children from such exploitation. It also underscores the need for strong law enforcement action and strict penalties to deter these types of crimes against vulnerable youth.

The details

According to the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office, Perez met the 13-year-old girl through online communication before traveling to her home in December, where he sexually abused her. The girl's family later discovered what had happened and called the police. When Perez returned to the girl's home on Thursday, the family intercepted him near their Punta Gorda residence and contacted the authorities, leading to his arrest.

  • In December, Perez allegedly sexually abused the 13-year-old girl at her home.
  • On Thursday, Perez allegedly returned to the girl's Punta Gorda home, where her parents were waiting for him.

The players

Kevin Lopez Perez

A 20-year-old Bradenton man who has been charged with second-degree felony counts of lewd or lascivious battery and traveling to meet a minor after using a computer to lure a child.

Charlotte County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that arrested Perez and is investigating the case.

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What they’re saying

“Few things in the world upset me as much as someone who does harm to a child. As I have said many times before, I have absolutely no tolerance for this vile crime and no sympathy for these offenders. He is where he belongs now.”

— Bill Prummell, Charlotte County Sheriff

“Thank you to the family for recognizing the situation and calling us to come put a stop to it.”

— Bill Prummell, Charlotte County Sheriff

What’s next

Perez remains held without bond at the Charlotte County Jail, and if convicted on both charges, he could face up to 30 years in prison.

The takeaway

This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers children face online and the critical role parents and law enforcement play in protecting vulnerable youth from sexual predators. It underscores the need for continued vigilance, education, and strong legal action to deter these types of crimes and keep our communities safe.