AUBURNDALE, FL– February 11, 2026 – The Auburndale Police Department’s Criminal Investigation and Special Enforcement Units conducted an undercover operation resulting in the arrest of a 36-year-old man accused of attempting to engage in lewd and illegal sexual acts with a minor.
Detectives made contact with an individual who identified himself as “Larry.” He was later identified as Milton Reinerio Pena-Hernandez (DOB: 01/01/1990) of Bradenton, Florida. Pena-Hernandez believed he was communicating with a 14-year-old girl, but he was actually interacting with undercover detectives.
Over a seven-day period, Pena-Hernandez sent repeated explicit messages and images to the detectives and offered $60 in exchange for illegal sex acts. He made multiple plans to travel and meet the minor in person, while stating several times that he did not want “trouble” due to her age.
On February 10, 2026, Pena-Hernandez traveled to an undisclosed location to meet the person he believed was the 14-year-old girl. Upon arrival, detectives identified and arrested him without incident.
Following the arrest, Pena-Hernandez informed investigators that he is a Honduran national currently in the United States unlawfully. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was notified, and the immigration status investigation is ongoing, having been referred to federal immigration authorities.
Pena-Hernandez was booked into the Polk County Jail on 18 felony charges, including:
- Transmission of harmful material to a minor
- Attempted lewd battery
- Unlawful use of a two-way communication device
- Traveling to meet a minor after using a computer to lure or entice a child into illegal sexual acts
The 18 felony charges will be enhanced due to Pena-Hernandez being in the country illegally.
The arrest occurred on February 10, 2026, which coincided with Safer Internet Day.
The Auburndale Police Department reminds the community to promote safe and responsible online behavior. Parents and guardians are encouraged to stay actively involved in their children’s online activities and to report any suspicious behavior to the Auburndale Police Department at 863-965-5555.
