Wimauma Man Arrested In Michigan For Sex Abuse Charges: Sheriff

WIMAUMA, FL — A Wimauma suspect who was wanted for child molestation on a victim under 12 has been arrested in Michigan, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office.

Monday, Michigan State Police conducted surveillance on Blas Jose-Hernandez, 39, and arrested him on charges of sexual battery victim under 12 and for lewd & lascivious molestation victim under 12, investigators said. Authorities found him in Bangor Charter Township, Michigan. Law enforcement officers in Michigan knew about the warrant HSCO had for him through Crime Stoppers of Tampa Bay.

"Keeping our children safe is our top priority," Sheriff Chad Chronister said. "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."

HCSO detectives announced May 26 they had obtained an arrest warrant for Jose-Hernandez after they finished an investigation that started in 2020 involving a victim who is under 12 years of age.

Jose-Hernandez will be extradited back to Hillsborough County from Michigan, according to authorities.

Related Patch Story:

• Man For Sexual Battery On Child: Report