Arrest of Mexican Migrant Accused of Child Sex Crimes Near the National Mall

A man from Mexico, identified as David Perez-Teofani, was detained by federal and local police near the National Mall after attempting to flee officers during a traffic stop. Perez-Teofani, who was previously charged with child sexual assault last year, was captured on video resisting arrest.

The arrest took place nine days following a declaration of a crime emergency in Washington, DC, by President Trump, leading to increased security measures with the deployment of federal agents and National Guard personnel. Perez-Teofani initially appeared cooperative, exiting his blue SUV surrounded by officers, but then fled and was quickly tackled by an officer in a Homeland Security vest.

Police officers detaining a man on the ground — Perez-Teofani was apprehended near the National Mall. NBC

During the confrontation, Perez-Teofani shouted in Spanish, “Please! I’m not a criminal! I work here! I want to be with my family!”

Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin disclosed that Perez-Teofani had previously been arrested in January 2024 for aggravated sexual assault of a child under 13 in Fairfax County. Although the charges were later dropped, the information raised concerns about his presence in the country.

Police officers detaining a man — Perez-Teofani had been accused of child sex crimes last year, though charges were later dropped. NBC

According to Homeland Security, Perez-Teofani had entered the US illegally three times and deliberately violated a final removal order after voluntarily returning to Mexico twice. Fairfax County court records confirm his arrest in January 2024, but prosecutors dropped the case without explanation.

The Fairfax County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office has not responded to inquiries. Critics have previously questioned the county’s handling of cases involving illegal migrants accused of sex crimes, with some alleging a reluctance to prosecute such cases.