Stepfather Accused in 6-Year-Old Case May Avoid Prison, Says Concerned Mother

A Miami mother is outraged as her child's stepfather, Zachary Perez, faces charges of torturing a 6-year-old boy yet might avoid prison time. Perez, a 42-year-old Iraq War Marine Corps veteran, was arrested in May 2025 on allegations of aggravated child abuse with great bodily harm after disturbing surveillance footage surfaced showing him abusing the child.

Disturbing Abuse Caught on Camera

Home surveillance video revealed harrowing scenes of the child forced to wear a dog collar and leash around his neck while being yanked backward and kicked by Perez. Additional footage showed the boy being forced to run with a backpack full of rocks, whipped with a tree branch, and subjected to verbal and physical abuse, resulting in swollen eyes, marks, and abrasions across his body.

Charges and Court Proceedings

Perez was charged with aggravated child abuse and was ordered held without bond. Court records show this arrest followed multiple prior accusations of domestic violence, including from his own 14-year-old daughter. Despite the severity of the case, Perez's defense argued that the mother consented to his disciplinary methods, a claim prosecutors deny with no evidence supporting it. The judge denied bond initially but allowed for a future psychiatric defense to be presented regarding Perez’s mental state linked to PTSD and a traumatic brain injury from his military service.

The Mother’s Outrage and Advocacy

The child’s mother has spoken out publicly, expressing her horror and heartbreak over the abuse. She demands justice and has opposed any leniency that would allow Perez to avoid prison. Advocates and experts stress the importance of protecting vulnerable children from such abuse and urge the court to prioritize the child’s safety and well-being in forthcoming proceedings.

Background and Broader Concerns

Perez's behavior has been described by prosecutors as that of a "ticking time bomb," with a history of violence and threats towards family members. The case has raised awareness locally about the potential risks posed by abusers with untreated trauma and the challenges of balancing mental health issues with accountability for violent acts. Community advocates call for stronger protections and interventions to safeguard children from similar abuse.

The case remains ongoing, with Perez continuing to deny the charges. The Miami community tracks the proceedings closely, seeking justice and safety for the young victim and heightened awareness of child abuse prevention.