A Corpus Christi man has been convicted in a U.S. federal court for distributing child sexual abuse materials. Angel Valdez, 19, was found guilty on April 28, following a thorough investigation that involved U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and police departments in both the U.S. and Australia.
Authorities were alerted to Valdez's activities in December 2023. The initial tip came from a comment made by Valdez on social media, where he expressed support for a person in Australia who had been imprisoned for animal cruelty.
Australian law enforcement then began an undercover operation, during which Valdez disclosed his interests in animal cruelty and child sexual abuse materials. On February 14, 2024, he shared a video with such illegal content involving a minor.
On June 28, 2024, a search warrant was executed at Valdez's Corpus Christi residence, leading to the discovery of a laptop containing more incriminating material. Valdez admitted to engaging in conversations and distributing the illicit video.
Special Agent in Charge Chad Plantz stated, "As a direct result of multi-national cooperation between Homeland Security Investigations special agents, officers from the Corpus Christi Police Department, and our law enforcement partners in Australia, we have successfully removed a dangerous predator from the local community who preyed on two of our most innocent and vulnerable populations – children and animals."
Valdez is due to be sentenced on August 12. He could face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. He remains in custody until the sentencing date.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Overman is handling the prosecution of the case. ICE continues its efforts to combat child exploitation, inviting the public to stay informed via their social media presence.
