International Manhunt Concludes: Canadian Fugitive Wanted in Hernando Molestation Case Arrested in France

By Staff Writer — The Brooksville Signal

BROOKSVILLE — In a dramatic turn of events, law enforcement agencies from multiple countries have successfully brought to justice a fugitive long sought in connection with a child molestation case originating in Hernando County.

Arrest in France After International Pursuit

According to the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office and supporting federal agencies, Daniel St. Pierre, a 59-year-old Canadian citizen, was apprehended in Bayonne, France on October 2, 2025, without incident, following a coordinated manhunt. 

The U.S. Marshals Service (Middle District of Florida), working alongside INTERPOL and French authorities, carried out the operation.  St. Pierre is now awaiting extradition back to the United States, where he will face the charges that initially triggered the international pursuit. 

The Allegations & Flight From Justice

Back in July 2025, Hernando County officials issued a felony arrest warrant for St. Pierre, accusing him of multiple offenses related to the sexual molestation of a minor.  The allegations further assert that he removed a court-ordered monitoring device without permission, violating terms of his release. 

Prosecutors and law enforcement allege that after the warrant was issued, St. Pierre fled the country—first to Canada—and eventually made his way to Europe. 

If convicted on the charges he faces in Florida, St. Pierre could be subject to a minimum mandatory sentence of 25 years under Florida law. 

What the Arrest Means for the Community

For residents of Hernando County, this arrest represents not just a moment of closure—but also a reminder of the challenges in tracking perpetrators who cross international borders. Crimes against children are deeply traumatic, not just for individual victims and their families but for community sense of safety and trust.

This case underscores the importance of collaboration between local, national, and international law enforcement agencies. Without the involvement of INTERPOL, the U.S. Marshals’ international operations team, and the cooperation of French authorities, an arrest on foreign soil would have been far more difficult or perhaps impossible.

Next Steps & Calls for Accountability

Now begins the extradition process, which can be lengthy. Legal proceedings will determine whether St. Pierre is returned to Florida to face trial. In the interim, victims and their advocates may continue pressing for transparency, support services, and assurances that the justice process will proceed diligently.

Community leaders, child protection advocates, and law enforcement will likely watch this case closely. It is critical that the victim(s) receive support and that Hernando County residents get answers and protections going forward.