Miranda Cásarez was given a sentence for her involvement in the death of her stepson, Benjamin “Benji” Cervera Jr.
A Texas A woman was sentenced to 25 years in prison for intentionally starving her 4-year-old stepson to death. The boy was forced to drink urine, hand sanitizer, and hot sauce and was found unresponsive, weighing 28 pounds.
Miranda Cásarez received her punishment on Thursday for the August 17, 2021, death of her stepson, Benjamin “Benji” Cervera Jr. She was convicted of causing serious bodily injury to a child. The boy’s father, Brandon Cervera Sr., is also facing charges in the case and is awaiting trial.
Amy Flores Zepeda expressed her wishes on behalf of her sister, Benji’s biological mother. The San Antonio Express-News reported.
Prosecutor Michael Villareal accused her of starving the boy and making him drink urine, hand sanitizer, and hot sauce, according to the Express-News.
Prosecutors provided evidence such as text messages they claimed were exchanged between her and her mother, indicating that she discussed intentionally withholding food from the boy. They also said she placed locks on the pantry and had video footage from a cellphone depicting the denial of nourishment. abuse and the denial of nourishment.
Prosecutor Michael Villareal mentioned that she should have to think about Benji for the rest of her life. Texas Public Radio reported.
Cásarez denied causing harm to her stepson and stated that his father was the one who put locks on the pantry and fridge, controlling her. She claimed to love the boy and even got a tattoo of his name, birth date, and death date after he passed away.
Cásarez stated that her stepson was like one of her own kids when her lawyer asked why she wanted to remember him that way.
Her lawyer, Anthony Cantrell, planned to appeal. He argued for probation, stating that she loved children and had a tough upbringing and tumultuous relationships.
He criticized the jury, stating, “I don’t think they even looked at the evidence. They had to blame someone, and they blamed my client.”
Benjamin was found unresponsive and died on August 17, 2021, according to the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office. An autopsy revealed concerning signs of starvation.
Concerns about his health had been raised earlier, but despite involvement by Child Protective Services (CPS) and a hospital visit, he was cleared, according to prosecutors.
Bexar County Criminal District Attorney Joe Gonzales stated, “Death by starvation is terrible and unforgivable.” statement. “This case paints a grim picture of neglect and abuse and highlights the urgency of justice for victimized children.”