Bradenton Man Arrested in Charlotte County on Charges of Traveling to Meet Minor

A 20-year-old Bradenton man was arrested Friday in Charlotte County after authorities say he attempted to meet a 13-year-old girl for a sexual encounter.

According to the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office, Kevin Lopez Perez was taken into custody after detectives learned he had traveled to Luther Road following an alleged communication with the minor. Investigators reported that Perez had previously engaged in a sexual encounter with the girl in December 2025, which was later discovered by the victim’s family.

On Thursday evening, Perez allegedly returned to the girl’s residence for another encounter. Family members intervened and contacted law enforcement. Deputies responded to the area and located Perez in his vehicle near the home, where he was arrested.

During an interview with detectives, Perez reportedly admitted to having sexual contact with the minor.

Perez was transported to the Charlotte County Jail