A Guilty Plea Shocks Corpus Christi: Former Officer Admits to Enticing a Minor
A wave of disbelief has swept through the Texas Gulf Coast community following a shocking revelation. Daniel Abelardo Verduzco, a 32-year-old former Corpus Christi police officer, has pleaded guilty to enticing a minor for sexual activity. According to court documents from the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, Verduzco admitted guilt on May 16. He was charged with one count of enticement of a minor.
Just one week later, on May 23, U.S. District Judge David S. Morales formally accepted the guilty plea and ordered a presentence investigation report. This report plays a crucial role in determining the severity of the upcoming sentence. On June 9, the judge officially acknowledged Verduzco’s guilty plea, further solidifying the case.
As of now, sentencing is scheduled for August 21. Verduzco may face a lengthy prison term and will likely be required to register as a sex offender.
Investigation Begins in Tulsa, Oklahoma
This disturbing case first came to light hundreds of miles from Corpus Christi. On January 8, a concerned mother in Tulsa, Oklahoma, contacted local authorities. She suspected a police officer was having an inappropriate relationship with her 15-year-old daughter.
Authorities soon confirmed her fears. After checking her daughter’s Snapchat messages, she discovered disturbing photos. These included the teenager inside a police vehicle, seated next to a department laptop displaying sensitive information such as call notes and police reports. The person messaging the teen used the name “Danny.”
As the investigation progressed, the Tulsa Police Department uncovered over 3,700 messages between “Danny” and the minor. These included explicit photos and videos of the girl in provocative poses and attire. On January 18, federal authorities filed a criminal complaint based on the evidence gathered.
At first, the girl’s mother believed “Danny” was another teen. However, her daughter later revealed that “Danny” was, in fact, a police officer. Authorities soon identified the man as Verduzco.
DHS Arrests Verduzco in Texas
The investigation quickly crossed state lines. On January 19, the Department of Homeland Security arrested Verduzco in Nueces County, Texas. At the time, the Corpus Christi Police Department had already placed him on administrative leave.
By mid-June, Lt. Eryca Gonzalez confirmed that Verduzco was no longer employed by the City of Corpus Christi. Although the police department refrained from commenting in detail, Gonzalez stated that they fully cooperated with federal agencies during the investigation.
Community Left Reeling and Demanding Accountability
This case has left a deep mark on the Corpus Christi community. It not only exposed the dangers of online exploitation but also shook public confidence in local law enforcement. When trusted officials commit such serious offenses, the breach of trust is hard to repair.
Moreover, the emotional toll on the young victim and her family is immeasurable. Although the sentencing may offer legal closure, the psychological impact will likely linger for years.
At the same time, the case has prompted renewed calls for reform. Law enforcement agencies, both local and nationwide, are under pressure to implement stricter hiring practices and conduct thorough background checks. Transparency and accountability are now more essential than ever.
Looking Ahead
As the August sentencing date approaches, many in the community are watching closely. While justice is on its course, the case remains a grim reminder of the risks vulnerable minors face online—and the urgent need for systems that protect them.
The outcome will not only define Verduzco’s fate but may also shape how departments nationwide address internal misconduct and rebuild public trust.