Who Is Thomas Perez Sr. & Where Is He Now?
Thomas Perez Sr., the father of Thomas Perez Jr., lived a modest life in Fontana, California. A retiree known to neighbors as mild-mannered and private, he shared his home with his adult son and their beloved dog. Described by family members as warm and dependable, Perez Sr. had a steady routine and a close bond with his son, whom he helped care for due to mental health challenges.
In August 2018, he had planned to visit family in Northern California. He left the house briefly to retrieve mail and take the dog for a walk—but when he didn’t return home, his son grew concerned and contacted police. What followed was a chain of events that would thrust both men into a national spotlight.
- “The Ruse”: Dateline Unpacks a Harrowing Case of False Confession and Police Misconduct December 5 2025
- Who Is Thomas Perez Jr. & Where Is He Now?
Contents
The False Murder and His Unknowing Role
Unbeknownst to Perez Sr., his absence set off an investigation that spiraled into a catastrophic error. While he was preparing to travel out of town from Los Angeles International Airport, Fontana police detained his son and subjected him to a 17-hour interrogation, ultimately coercing a false confession for a murder that had never occurred.
Officers falsely claimed that Perez Sr. had been found stabbed and dead. They ignored reports that he was alive and traveling, even after his daughter contacted them to confirm he was en route to visit her in Northern California. For hours, and eventually days, they withheld this information from his son—allowing the narrative of a homicide to grow more grotesque.
Perez Sr. was eventually located at the airport, but no one told his son. It wasn’t until a nurse at the psychiatric hospital facilitated a phone call that the two were reunited—emotionally and vocally—over the phone. The impact of this misinformation deeply affected both men.
Rebuilding After the Storm
After the ordeal, Perez Sr. stood firmly beside his son as they tried to make sense of what had happened. His presence was vital in helping his son cope with the trauma of the wrongful confession and institutional hold. The family worked closely with attorney Jerry Steering in pursuing legal action against the City of Fontana, culminating in a settlement of nearly $900,000.
Though Perez Sr. has remained out of the public eye and declined media interviews, his role in the case has been emblematic of how institutional failures can devastate families. His absence was used as leverage by police to break down his son, and his eventual return brought clarity—but not before lasting damage had been done.
Life After the Ordeal
Now in his senior years, Thomas Perez Sr. continues to live a quiet life, mostly avoiding public attention. He has not pursued public statements or legal commentary but has remained a pillar of support for his son. Friends and family describe him as kind, patient, and deeply protective.
Though he was never the subject of any accusation, Perez Sr.’s life was turned upside down by the actions of law enforcement. His experience underscores the collateral harm caused by wrongful accusations—not just for those falsely accused, but for the loved ones pulled into the chaos.
For Thomas Perez Sr., the lasting lesson is one of vigilance, resilience, and the enduring strength of family in the face of institutional betrayal.
More “The Ruse”
- “The Ruse”: Dateline Unpacks a Harrowing Case of False Confession and Police Misconduct December 5 2025
- Who Is Thomas Perez Jr. & Where Is He Now?
- Who Is Thomas Perez Sr. & Where Is He Now?
