Mother Sentenced After Horrific Murder of 10-Year-Old Daughter

UPDATE: In a shocking turn of events, Michelle Martens has been sentenced to 12 years in prison following the horrific murder and dismemberment of her 10-year-old daughter, Victoria Martens, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This case, which has left the community in disbelief, unfolded in 2018 when police discovered Victoria’s remains partially wrapped in a burning blanket inside the family home.

Authorities report that on Victoria’s birthday, she was sexually abused, strangled, and dismembered. Disturbingly, it is alleged that Michelle watched as her boyfriend, Fabian Gonzales, and his cousin, Jessica Kelley, committed these heinous acts. The autopsy revealed that Victoria was given alcohol, although Michelle initially claimed she was also administered methamphetamine to “calm her down.”

Responding to a 911 call about a domestic dispute, officers arrived at the scene to find the mother burning her daughter’s remains. Following this, all three adults involved were charged with multiple serious offenses, including first-degree murder and child abuse resulting in grievous bodily harm or death.

In a court statement, Michelle admitted to one count of child abuse resulting in death but later retracted parts of her testimony regarding the substances involved. Her plea bargain has led to a sentence that many see as lenient given the severity of the crime.

Fabian Gonzales faced more serious charges, including second-degree murder and criminal sexual penetration. However, several charges against him were dropped, ultimately resulting in a 37.5-year prison sentence, with eligibility for parole after serving half. Meanwhile, Kelley was sentenced to 44 years in prison for her involvement, although she is expected to serve less than half of that time.

The community is still reeling from the brutal nature of this crime. Search warrants revealed that Michelle Martens had previously sought out men online to abuse her daughter, claiming to have allowed at least three men to do so. Authorities have yet to identify these individuals.

The trials for Gonzales and Kelley were postponed until 2022, but the legal proceedings have drawn widespread media attention and public outrage. The emotional impact of this tragic case cannot be understated, as families in Albuquerque grapple with the loss of a young girl whose life was cut tragically short.

As of October 14, 2023, Michelle Martens is now released, raising concerns over the safety and well-being of children in the community. The legal battles continue, and the case remains a poignant reminder of the urgent need for child protection.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the community continues to seek justice for Victoria Martens.