A mother in Paraguay allegedly handed her 3-year-old daughter to a drug dealer in exchange for a small amount of drugs. The child was never seen alive again.
The Case
In April, in Pedro Juan Caballero, Paraguay, authorities say Aurelia Salinas, 42, allowed a drug dealer to take her 3-year-old daughter, Luz Maida, in exchange for a small quantity of drugs. The child was found dead days later, discovered inside an abandoned dwelling. An autopsy determined she had been sexually assaulted before her death. We are not detailing further specifics, given her age.
The Investigation
Salinas initially told police her daughter had gone missing while she was asleep, but investigators say surveillance footage later contradicted this account, and she subsequently admitted to the exchange. According to local reports, her boyfriend later confessed to killing the child.
Arrests
Salinas, her boyfriend, and a 17-year-old believed to be connected to the case were taken into custody. Investigators said Salinas appeared to be under the influence of drugs during the search for her daughter and showed limited concern at the time.
A Separate, Related Investigation
Authorities have also separately investigated an allegation that Salinas permitted a 30-year-old man to sexually abuse one of her other daughters, age 12. Both cases were reported to be under investigation as of the available information.
Community Response
The case drew intense public anger in the local community, with hundreds attending Luz's funeral.
FAQ
Who was arrested in connection with Luz Maida's death?
Her mother, Aurelia Salinas, her mother's boyfriend, and a 17-year-old believed to be connected to the case were all taken into custody.
How was the case uncovered?
Surveillance footage reportedly contradicted the mother's initial account of her daughter's disappearance.
Is there a related investigation involving the family?
Yes. A separate allegation involving abuse of another of Salinas' children has also reportedly been under investigation.