A man featured on the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office's "Warrant Wednesday" segment on social media and in a Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay press release has been arrested in Michigan.
On May 26, 2021, HCSO announced detectives had obtained an arrest warrant for Blas Jose-Hernandez, 39, after completing an investigation that started in 2020 involving a victim who is under 12 years of age. On the same day, Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay sent out a press release asking for information on the case.
A tip was received through Crime Stoppers that the suspect had fled to Michigan. On June 14, 2021, Michigan State Police conducted surveillance on Jose-Hernandez and arrested him.
"Keeping our children safe is our top priority," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "Thanks to community partnerships, like Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay, a dangerous predator is off the streets. He will never again be able to take advantage of a child. We are grateful for the community member who came forward with the tip that led to the arrest of Jose-Hernandez."
Jose-Hernandez is facing 15 counts of Sexual Battery Victim under 12 (Capital)
and Lewd & Lascivious Molestation Victim under 12.