El Paso Standard

The United States Attorney’s Office for Puerto Rico has sentenced Luis Javier Pérez-Badillo, a former Puerto Rico police officer, to 11 years in prison and five years of supervised release. This decision follows an investigation spearheaded by ICE San Juan's Puerto Rico Crimes Against Children Task Force.

Pérez-Badillo, aged 50 and a resident of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, admitted to the transportation of child pornography. His guilty plea was entered on October 9, 2024. Authorities revealed that from October 11, 2023, to February 21, 2024, Pérez-Badillo used a cell phone to transport illicit images.

"The defendant, who was entrusted by the community to serve and protect, violated that trust by committing these crimes. As this case demonstrates, those who exploit children will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law," stated W. Stephen Muldrow, U.S. Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. He affirmed the commitment of the U.S. Attorney's Office to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to address such offenses.

ICE Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge, Rebecca González-Ramos, criticized the former officer’s actions: "The actions of this individual are a disgrace to the amazing men and women of the Puerto Rico Police Bureau. As law enforcement officers, we are entrusted with the responsibility to protect and serve, not to harm. While no sentence can ever truly undo the harm caused to the victim, it is our duty to ensure that justice is served. This 11-year sentence clearly conveys that no one, regardless of their position, is above the law. We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of our children."

For additional information on ICE HSI’s child protection efforts or to report suspicious activities, individuals are encouraged to visit Project iGuardian and Know2Protect or contact the Puerto Rico ICE tip line.