New Mexico man convicted of killing 2-year-old after fleeing to Mexico
10/06/2022 12:44 pm PDT
ALAMOGORDO, N.M. (TCD) -- A 37-year-old man has been convicted in the death of a 2-year-old boy after fleeing to Mexico and being apprehended near the U.S.-Mexico border.
Ricardo Soto inflicted physical injuries upon the toddler, Jeremiah Nevarez, the New Mexico Attorney General’s Office announced in a news release. On June 7, 2018, Nevarez was found unresponsive and was transported to Children’s Hospital at University Hospital in El Paso, Texas, to treat a skull fracture on the left side of his head, the Alamogordo Daily News reports. Upon the toddler’s arrival, he had minimal brain activity. The toddler eventually succumbed to his injuries.
Medical personnel suspected child abuse and Texas Child Protective Services was contacted.
According to the Alamogordo Daily News, Soto initially said he would speak with New Mexico State Police, but he fled to Mexico and failed to pick up his phone. Authorities were reportedly able to track Soto’s phone near the U.S.-Mexico border.
In a news release, the New Mexico State Police said Soto was detained by U.S. Customs in El Paso, Texas, as he was trying to cross back into the United States.
On Oct. 5, the Attorney General’s Office announced Soto was convicted of intentional child abuse resulting in death, and he faces a mandatory life sentence.
In a statement, New Mexico Attorney General Hector Balderas said, "Children deserve the full protection of the law, and I am proud to partner with District Attorney Key to ensure justice is served for baby Jeremiah."
Soto’s sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
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