Prosecutors in Florida have released disturbing home surveillance footage showing Zachary Perez, a 42-year-old Marine Corps veteran, allegedly torturing his 6-year-old stepson.
The footage, which authorities say was taken in May 2025, reveals a pattern of severe abuse, including kicking, beating, whipping, and strangling the child with a pink dog collar.
The Abuse Captured on Camera
The surveillance videos reportedly show Perez engaging in several disturbing behaviors, including using the dog collar to yank the child off his feet multiple times.
In one video, Perez is seen holding the collar attached to the child’s neck as he walks him around the backyard. In another, the boy can be seen carrying a backpack filled with rocks, an alleged punishment imposed by Perez.
Other clips appear to show Perez physically assaulting the child, including kicking him in the stomach or head, yelling at him to “get your f—ing shoes on,” and chasing him around the yard with a wooden stick.
One of the most harrowing clips, which has been largely redacted, allegedly shows the child being yanked backward by the collar, lifting him off the ground and slamming him onto the grass.
Charges and Investigation
Perez has been charged with aggravated child abuse resulting in great bodily harm. Authorities were tipped off by the boy’s mother, who reported the abuse after witnessing the disturbing behavior.
According to Miami-Dade County deputies, the investigation revealed numerous injuries on the child, including swollen eyes, bruises, scratches, and a rash on his neck from the collar. The boy also had multiple marks from being struck with a tree branch.
During a court hearing, a deputy testified that Perez had punched the child in the face multiple times and subjected him to further physical harm. Perez allegedly sent threatening text messages to the boy’s mother, saying, “Get home, I’m going to make you pay” and, “You’ll remember Mother’s Day.”
Previous Allegations and History of Abuse
In addition to the current charges, prosecutors revealed that multiple women who had been previously involved with Perez had contacted authorities, reporting similar incidents of abuse.
These women described Perez as being prone to violent outbursts, including death threats and intimidation with a gun. One woman claimed Perez had threatened to kill his ex-wife, children, and others.
Court Appearance and Legal Proceedings
Perez was arrested in May 2025 after the abuse was reported to authorities but was later released on house arrest in June. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges. He is scheduled for a court appearance on August 28, 2025.
Assistant State Attorney Wily Wisset referred to Perez as “a ticking time bomb”, highlighting his violent tendencies and the serious threat he poses to others.
The Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to gather evidence related to the abuse, and they have urged anyone with additional information to come forward. The case has shocked the local community, with many expressing disbelief over the cruelty displayed in the footage.
