A former police officer from Corpus Christi has entered a guilty plea for engaging in sexual relations with a minor. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas released information detailing that Daniel Verduzco, age 31, admitted to enticement of a minor female, as stated by U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei on Friday.
Investigations revealed that Verduzco and the 15-year-old girl exchanged over 3,700 messages from May 2024, containing sexually suggestive images and discussions about their sexual encounters, and plans for future acts. Authorities became aware of this relationship on January 8, leading to Verduzco's admission of the liaison, as reported by the U.S. Attorney's Office.
The distressing facts came to light, evidencing that Verduzco, and the young victim met in person several times. According to the press release by the U.S. Attorney's Office, the court has scheduled U.S. District Judge David Morales to pass sentence on August 21. Verduzco now faces a minimum of ten years to a possible life sentence in federal prison and may also be fined up to $250,000.
While awaiting sentencing, Verduzco remains out on bond, a decision that comes with its own set of contentions. The case, prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Overman, falls under Project Safe Childhood, a DOJ initiative aiming to combat child exploitation. For more information about the PSC and ways to educate on internet safety, the DOJ encourages visits to the PSC's webpage, as per the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Homeland Security Investigations of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, in coordination with the Corpus Christi Police Department, spearheaded the inquiry leading to Verduzco's plea. These agencies persist in their efforts to track down, and prosecute individuals guilty of child sexual exploitation, and moreover, to provide support and rescue for the victims ensnared by such heinous crimes, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.
