Former Corpus Christi Police officer Pleads Guilty to Enticement of a Minor
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police officer, pleaded guilty to enticing a minor. The case began when an oklahoma mother found disturbing messages."/>
A former Corpus Christi Police Department (CCPD) officer,Daniel Abelardo verduzco,has pleaded guilty to one count of enticement of a minor [[1]]. The guilty plea was entered on May 16, 2025, and accepted by U.S. District Judge David S. Morales on June 9, 2025.
Details of the Case against the Former Police Officer
The inquiry began on january 8, 2025, when police in Tulsa, Oklahoma, responded to a report from a mother who discovered concerning messages on her 15-year-old daughter’s phone. the messages, found on Snapchat, were from an individual using the username “Danny,” who appeared to be a police officer [[2]].
Court documents revealed that the victim, identified as MV1, had lived in Corpus Christi with her mother in 2023 before relocating to Oklahoma in the spring of 2024. While in Corpus Christi, MV1 had become acquainted with “Danny,” whom her family believed to be her age. The snapchat messages, however, revealed that “Danny” was, in fact, an adult police officer.
Did You No? The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) reported a 94% increase in online enticement cases involving children between 2019 and 2023, highlighting the growing risk of online exploitation [[https://www.missingkids.org/netsmartz/resources/onlinegrooming]].
Evidence Uncovered During the Investigation
The investigation revealed that Verduzco and MV1 had been communicating via Snapchat from May 26, 2024, until January 7, 2025. Key pieces of evidence included:
- On June 6,2024,verduzco inquired about MV1’s sexual activity.
- On June 7, 2024, Verduzco explicitly described sexual acts he wanted to perform with MV1.
- Messages indicated that sexual contact occurred after MV1 moved to Oklahoma.
- MV1 later stated that she missed having sex with Verduzco.
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents from both Tulsa and Corpus Christi collaborated on the case. They verified Verduzco’s identity by comparing his driver’s license and official CCPD photographs with images sent via Snapchat.
A forensic examination of MV1’s phone uncovered 3,739 messages between the two Snapchat accounts. Investigators found multiple photographs of Verduzco in his police cruiser and uniform, as well as sexually suggestive photos and videos of MV1.
CCPD’s Response and Verduzco’s Employment History
The Corpus Christi Police Department placed Verduzco on administrative leave when he was arrested by Department of Homeland Security agents on January 19, 2025. The department stated that it was “fully cooperating with the investigation.”
According to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement,verduzco was employed by CCPD between March 2022 and February 2025.
Sentencing and Potential Penalties
As part of his plea agreement, Verduzco faces a minimum of 10 years in federal prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or a combination of both [[3]]. His sentencing is scheduled for August 21, 2025, in federal court.
Pro Tip: If you or someone you know is a victim of online exploitation, resources are available.Contact the National sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE or visit RAINN’s website at [[https://www.rainn.org]] for help.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| May 26,2024 – January 7,2025 | Verduzco and MV1 communicate via Snapchat. |
| January 8, 2025 | Tulsa Police begin investigation. |
| January 19, 2025 | Verduzco arrested by Homeland Security agents. |
| May 16, 2025 | Verduzco pleads guilty to enticement of a minor. |
| June 9, 2025 | Guilty plea accepted by U.S. District Judge David S. Morales. |
| August 21, 2025 | Verduzco’s sentencing date. |
What are the long-term effects of online enticement on victims? How can communities better protect children from online predators?
Understanding Online Enticement and Its Impact
Online enticement, also known as online grooming, is a manipulative process that predators use to build a relationship with a child or young person online, with the ultimate goal of sexual abuse or exploitation. This can take many forms, including befriending the child, gaining their trust, and gradually introducing sexually suggestive topics or requests.
The consequences of online enticement can be devastating for victims, leading to emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).Victims may also experience feelings of shame, guilt, and isolation, making it difficult for them to seek help. In some cases, online enticement can escalate to physical abuse or exploitation, further compounding the trauma.
Frequently Asked Questions About Enticement of a Minor
- What constitutes enticement of a minor?
- Enticement of a minor involves luring or persuading a minor into sexual activity or exploitation. This can occur online or in person and often involves manipulation and deception.
- What are the potential penalties for enticement of a minor?
- Penalties vary depending on jurisdiction but can include lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and mandatory registration as a sex offender.
- How can parents protect their children from online enticement?
- Parents can protect their children by monitoring their online activity, educating them about online safety, and maintaining open interaction about their online experiences.
- What should I do if I suspect a child is being enticed online?
- if you suspect a child is being enticed online, report it immediately to law enforcement or the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).
- What resources are available for victims of online enticement?
- Resources include the National Sexual Assault Hotline, RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network), and local mental health services specializing in trauma.
- How does law enforcement investigate cases of online enticement?
- Law enforcement uses various techniques, including forensic analysis of electronic devices, undercover operations, and collaboration with other agencies, to investigate these cases.
- What role does social media play in enticement cases?
- Social media platforms can be used by predators to groom and entice minors, making it crucial for these platforms to implement safety measures and monitor for suspicious activity.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Consult with a legal professional for advice tailored to your specific situation.
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