A Norfolk man is facing life in prison after pleading guilty to a brutal campaign of abuse against a woman he lured into a relationship, then tortured over the course of several months in late 2024.
William Alexander Perez, 22, admitted to two counts of aggravated malicious wounding, two counts of malicious wounding, and one count of sexual battery. His victim—who had been experiencing homelessness and mental health struggles—briefly lived with Perez after he offered her a place to stay. What followed, according to prosecutors, was months of calculated, filmed violence and coercion.
A Pattern of Control and Sadistic Violence
Prosecutors say Perez began the abuse just weeks into the relationship. From November to December 2024, he regularly punched the woman, cut her with knives, broke her bones, and recorded many of the attacks on his phone. In some recordings, Perez can be seen interrogating the victim and assaulting her when he didn’t like her answers. In one of the most disturbing clips, he reportedly forced her to say goodbye to her family while he beat her.
One assault left her with a broken nose, which Perez tried to “fix” himself. Another attack ripped open stitches on her lip. He later stabbed her multiple times—leaving visible scars on her face, neck, arms, and legs. In the most severe incident, he broke her ribs, broke her nose again, and strangled her until she had a seizure.
Perez also repeatedly coerced sex from the victim during this time. Prosecutors emphasized that her ability to consent was stripped by the constant threat of violence.
Escape, Arrest, and Plea
In late December 2024, the woman was able to escape with help from a relative. Perez reported her missing to police. Unaware that she had gone to law enforcement, Perez met with detectives under the pretense of continuing the missing person investigation. He was arrested in early January 2025.
On October 21, 2025, Perez pleaded guilty in Norfolk Circuit Court. As part of the plea deal, several related charges were dropped, but there was no agreement on sentencing—meaning the judge will determine his punishment. He faces up to life in prison.
His sentencing is scheduled for January 16, 2026.
Prosecutors Praise Victim’s Bravery
“Mr. Perez’s abuse of this vulnerable victim — and his recording of his abuse — is shocking in its duration and severity,” said Commonwealth’s Attorney Ramin Fatehi. “I am grateful to the family of the survivor who helped her escape, and I am grateful to the survivor for her courage in helping us hold Mr. Perez accountable.”
Prosecutors Michelle L. Newkirk and Jessica L. Terkovich are handling the case, while former Norfolk Police Detective Jennifer M. Baron led the investigation.