ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (WFLA) — The founder and managing partner of LALA, a local restaurant and karaoke bar, has been arrested in a child pornography investigation.
Lucas Jose Herraiz, 42, was taken into custody Wednesday on 18 counts of possession of child pornography, according to the St. Petersburg Police Department.
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Police said their investigation began after receiving a tip from the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. They then obtained a warrant and searched Herraiz’s home and business.
Lucas Jose Herraiz (Credit: St. Petersburg Police Department)
Two electronic devices were seized from his home, and detectives said they discovered Herraiz had downloaded multiple videos of child sexual abuse material.
Herraiz’s LinkedIn profile lists him as the founder and managing partner of LALA, a restaurant and karaoke bar with locations in St. Pete and Tampa.
The business acknowledged the allegations in a statement posted on social media Thursday night and said Herraiz is no longer involved in day-to-day operations and is not permitted on the premises.
“We are aware of recent news involving an individual associated with Lala St. Pete,” the post read. “This information was unknown to the remaining ownership and has been as shocking to us as it has been to the public.”
According to the statement, the restaurant will be continuing to operate independently under its remaining ownership.
“None of the remaining owners had any prior knowledge of or involvement in the alleged conduct,” the business wrote. “The company is working with legal counsel to address this matter appropriately and in accordance with applicable law. The safety, well-being, and respect of our staff, guests, and community remain our highest priorities.”
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