Police arrest Phoenix teen in baby brother’s death
Jun 29, 2012, 12:17 PM
PHOENIX — Police have arrested a Phoenix teenager on suspicion of fatally
beating and strangling his 15-month-old brother two years ago.
The Arizona Republic reported the 14-year-old boy, whose
name is not being released, was taken into custody Wednesday after telling
police how he hurt the baby.
Police spokesman James Holmes said Jose Valencia Maldonado was pronounced dead
at a hospital Dec. 29, 2010. Hospital staff called police when they noticed Jose
had bruises, scratches and bite marks.
The boy told police he punched the baby repeatedly, threw objects at him and
tied a bandana around his neck for an extended length of time.
Investigators said they suspect the baby’s mother, Guillermina Maldonado,
physically abused her children, including the teen who was arrested. Maldonado
was arrested June 22 and charged with child abuse.
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Information from: The Arizona Republic, http://www.azcentral.com
