Arrest Made In Elderly Man's Murder In Pembroke Pines
PEMBROKE PINES (CBSMiami) – Pembroke Pines police said they have made an arrest in the murder of an elderly man.
Police said they have arrested 24-year-old Wesley James Perez in connection to the murder of Fernando Frias, 92, a resident of the Tanglewood Lakes community, along SW 100th Avenue and 6th Court.
Perez, who lives next door to Frias, appeared in bond court on Tuesday and was charged with premeditated murder. Perez told the judge that he didn't want the public defender's help.
He told the judge, "Your honor these charges are defaming my character. I want 35 to 40 days to find an attorney, so I can fight this case."
The judge told Perez he could hire his own lawyer and try to get bond at a later time.
Neighbors told CBS4 that Perez lives in a house with his mother.
A couple who knew Frias for years says they recently helped him celebrate his 92nd birthday. They say Frias mind was sharp and his kindness was limitless.
The place Frias called home for thirty years is still a crime scene.
Neighbors say Frias was a pillar of the community: "A widower, father, and grandfather who was the first to offer help and always Had a kind word for everyone."
"Everybody in the community knew him. It's the saddest thing in the world. No one can believe it," a couple who knew Frias for many years tells CBS 4. They asked their names 'not' be used.
Frias was found dead outside of the home Sunday night. Police said he had been shot.
Neighbors say Frias lived in the community for decades and had two grown children.
Perez is being held without bond. He has been arrested twice before for driving under the influence.
