Tampa Police Charge ICAC Suspect with Sexual Battery

TAMPA, FL. (MAY 7, 2026) - - Following a comprehensive investigation into the possession and production of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), Tampa Police detectives have added several counts of felony sexual battery to a list of charges against 71-year-old Hernan Velasquez-Rios (Hispanic male, 8/26/1954). 

"The depravity of this individual is abhorrent," said Chief Lee Bercaw. "He hid behind the trust of a family acquaintance to prey on children. While the scale of his evil is staggering, our resolve is stronger. To any victim still carrying this burden, you are not alone. We are here to ensure this predator answers for every single life he impacted."

On April 1, 2026, the Tampa Police Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit, in partnership with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), executed a search warrant at 2513 W. Main St. During the operation, FDLE Special Agent Supervisor Richard Kaplan deployed Layla, an Electronic Storage Detection (ESD) canine. 

Detectives recovered and seized multiple digital devices. A forensic analysis revealed approximately 90,000 files of CSAM. Velasquez-Rios was arrested and charged with 100 counts of Possession of Child Pornography (10 or More Images).

As Tampa Police ICAC detectives continued their follow-up investigation, they discovered evidence on the recovered devices depicting Velasquez-Rios sexually battering multiple children. The evidence suggests the abuse occurred between 2002 and 2014, involving at least six different minor victims, some of whom were known to the suspect. Through dedicated investigative work, detectives and crime analysts identified one of the victims, who is now 26 years old and residing in Buffalo, New York. Detectives traveled to meet the victim, who confirmed that the abuse occurred between the ages of 6 and 13 while the suspect was a family acquaintance.

Based on the victim’s statement and forensic evidence, Velasquez-Rios now faces additional charges of Sexual Battery (Familial or Custodial Authority; Victim under 12) and Sexual Battery (Familial or Custodial Authority; Victim 12-17). Velasquez-Rios remains incarcerated at the Orient Road Jail. 

At this stage in the ongoing investigation, detectives believe there may be additional victims and are specifically looking for information regarding crimes committed by Velasquez-Rios that may have occurred between 2002 and 2014.

Anyone with information that could assist investigators is urged to contact Tampa Police Department ICAC Unit at 813.276.3266 and refer to report number 26-900479. The Tampa Police Victim Advocate also stands ready to provide support or connection to recovery resources that may be needed.