Roger B. Handberg, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Florida
A California man, Rigoberto Rios Gallardo, has been indicted on charges related to the production of child sexual abuse material and coercion and enticement of a minor. Acting United States Attorney Sara C. Sweeney announced the unsealing of the indictment in Tampa, Florida. Rios Gallardo, 31, from Los Angeles, faces three counts of producing child sexual abuse material and one count of coercing and enticing a minor for sexual activity. If found guilty on all charges, he could face life imprisonment.
The indictment details that in August and September 2024, Rios Gallardo allegedly coerced a minor into sexually explicit conduct to create visual depictions. Between August and December 2024, he is accused of persuading a minor to engage in sexual activities.
It is important to note that an indictment is a formal charge indicating alleged violations of federal criminal law. Defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The FBI and North Port Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Derry will prosecute the case.
This legal action is part of Project Safe Childhood, an initiative by the Department of Justice launched in May 2006 aimed at combating child sexual exploitation and abuse. The project involves collaboration between federal, state, and local resources to address these crimes and support victims.
For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.
