Willie Torres Gerena, a 60-year-old resident of Arecibo and former boxing coach, was found guilty in Puerto Rico’s Federal Court on September 3 of transporting a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, according to federal prosecutors. The four-day jury trial was presided over by Judge Francisco Besosa. Evidence showed Torres Gerena, described as a trusted father figure to the victim, invited a 16-year-old girl to lunch, then drove her to a motel and attempted to rape her.
FBI special agents arrested him on January 25, 2024. He faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison, up to life imprisonment, plus five years to life of supervised release. Sentencing is set for December 2; until then he remains detained in federal custody.
Acting U.S. Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico Héctor Ramírez Carbó said such cases require sensitivity toward victims and that the verdict shows abusers will be held fully accountable. FBI San Juan Special Agent in Charge Carlos Goris praised the victim’s courage and reaffirmed the FBI’s commitment to protecting vulnerable community members.