Former Corpus Christi police officer Daniel Abelardo Verduzco faces at least 10 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to using his position to coerce a 15-year-old girl into a sexual relationship, highlighting how those meant to protect can become predators.
Key Takeaways
- Verduzco, 32, pleaded guilty to one count of enticement of a minor and will be sentenced on August 21, potentially facing 10 years to life in federal prison.
- The investigation began when a mother in Tulsa, Oklahoma discovered over 3,700 Snapchat messages between her daughter and Verduzco, including sexually suggestive photos and videos.
- The Corpus Christi Police Department cooperated fully with federal investigators, immediately placing Verduzco on administrative leave before his termination.
- The case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a Department of Justice initiative launched in 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.
Betrayal of Badge and Public Trust
The conviction of former Corpus Christi police officer Daniel Abelardo Verduzco reveals a disturbing betrayal of the authority entrusted to law enforcement officers. Verduzco, 32, pleaded guilty on May 16 to one count of enticement of a minor, a serious federal offense that carries a minimum 10-year prison sentence. U.S. District Judge David S. Morales found him guilty on May 23 and ordered a presentence investigation report, with the plea officially accepted on June 9. This case exposes how positions of power can be exploited by predators who infiltrate institutions meant to protect the public.
Former Corpus Christi police officer convicted on charge of enticement of a minor https://t.co/dVjWPcZvZ5
— Corpus Christi Caller-Times (@callerdotcom) June 16, 2025
Investigation Uncovers Extensive Predatory Behavior
The investigation into Verduzco’s criminal activities began on January 8 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, when a vigilant mother discovered suspicious messages on her daughter’s Snapchat account from a user named “Danny.” Initially believing “Danny” was a teenager, the mother was horrified to discover he was actually a 32-year-old police officer from Corpus Christi. Federal agents uncovered more than 3,700 Snapchat exchanges between Verduzco and the 15-year-old victim, including numerous photos and videos of the girl in sexually suggestive poses. The investigation culminated in Verduzco’s arrest on January 19 by U.S. Department of Homeland Security agents.
“CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 31-year-old resident of Corpus Christi has pleaded guilty to enticing a minor,” announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.
Swift Action and Accountability
The Corpus Christi Police Department’s response to the allegations against one of their own demonstrates the necessary accountability within law enforcement. Immediately upon learning of the investigation, the department placed Verduzco on administrative leave and fully cooperated with federal investigators. This prompt action helped ensure that evidence was preserved and justice could be served. Verduzco is no longer employed with the department, having been terminated following the investigation conducted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Corpus Christi Police Department.
Part of a Larger Effort to Protect Children
Verduzco’s case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Overman as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide Department of Justice initiative launched in May 2006. This program marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. The conviction of Verduzco demonstrates how these coordinated efforts can successfully bring predators to justice, regardless of their position or authority in the community.
Sentencing and Consequences
Verduzco currently remains on bond pending his sentencing hearing scheduled for August 21. He faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison, along with a possible maximum fine of $250,000. The severity of these potential penalties reflects the serious nature of crimes against children and the additional breach of trust when committed by a law enforcement officer. This case serves as a stark reminder that no one is above the law, and those who abuse positions of power to prey on the vulnerable will face the full force of the justice system.
