Florida
Bryan Cardozo-Mendieta Guilty Plea Entered in Federal Child Exploitation Case
Gainesville, Florida – Bryan Cardozo-Mendieta, 21, of Morriston, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of attempted enticement of a minor and one count of possession of child pornography. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States…
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Key points
- Bryan Cardozo-Mendieta pleaded guilty in federal court to attempted child enticement and possession of child pornography.
- Authorities found over 500 child abuse images on his phone after his arrest in Kissimmee, Florida.
- Sentencing is set for January 26, 2027, where he faces between 10 years and life in federal prison.
NewsWK — Bryan Cardozo-Mendieta, 21, of Morriston, Florida, entered a federal guilty plea in Gainesville. The case highlights federal law enforcement efforts across the region to protect children from sexual abuse.
What details emerged in the Levy County child enticement case?
Federal prosecutors revealed that Cardozo-Mendieta targeted a child in November 2025. On November 8, 2025, he inappropriately touched a child. Later, on November 17, 2025, he communicated with an individual he believed was a minor. He then traveled from Levy County to Kissimmee, Florida, intending to engage in sexual activity.
Investigators uncovered extensive digital evidence during the operation. Specifically, agents seized evidence including:
- More than 500 images of child sexual abuse material on his cell phone.
- Communications detailing plans to meet a suspected minor.
How will federal authorities handle sentencing in this matter?
Chief U.S. District Judge Allen C. Winsor scheduled sentencing for January 26, 2027, at 10:30 a.m. in Gainesville. Cardozo-Mendieta faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison. However, the court could sentence him to a maximum penalty of life imprisonment based on federal guidelines.
Bryan Cardozo-Mendieta
U.S. Attorney John P. Heekin announced the plea for the Northern District of Florida. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Hapner handled the prosecution for the federal government. Meanwhile, Homeland Security Investigations and the Levy County Sheriff’s Office conducted the joint investigation.
Additionally, officials prosecuted the case under Project Safe Childhood. The Department of Justice launched this nationwide initiative in May 2006. It combines federal, state, and local law enforcement resources to combat child sexual exploitation.
This article was produced with the assistance of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
Related: Okaloosa Correctional Inmate Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison on Child Exploitation Charges
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