Police: Money laundering suspect’s phone has child sex abuse evidence

Man from Spain arrested at Miami International Airport faces 2 criminal cases in Miami-Dade County

Francisco Piriz Perera was arrested in April in Miami-Dade County, and he faced more charges in May. (MDCR)

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – A money laundering suspect detectives identified at the Miami International Airport had evidence of child sex abuse in his phone, according to police.

Miami-Dade correctional officers have been holding Francisco Piriz-Perera since April 29. Records show he appeared in court on Thursday and was at the Metrowest Detention Center near Doral.

Recommended Videos



During a forensic probe of Piriz-Perera’s iPhone, investigators reported finding he was storing photos showing boys as young as 7, 9, and 12 years old being sexually abused.

Prosecutors filed a second case against Piriz-Perera, who is from Spain. The Coral Gables Police Department was the arresting agency.

For the April case, Piriz-Perera was facing charges of unauthorized money transmitter, unauthorized money transmitter conspiracy, money laundering/transport monetary, and money laundering unlawful proceeds.

For the May case, Piriz-Perera was facing two counts of possession of images showing sexual performance by a child. Records show he also has a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement hold.

Miami-Dade County Circuit Judge Carlos Humberto Gamez was set to preside over both cases. Court records show Piriz-Perera’s arraignment for both cases is May 20.


About the Author

The Emmy Award-winning journalist joined the Local 10 News team in 2013. She wrote for the Miami Herald for more than 9 years and won a Green Eyeshade Award.

Recommended Videos