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Victoria Martens Case Revisited as Autopsy and Court Records Detail Abuse, Pleas and Sentences

New coverage centers on forensic findings that prosecutors say guided the final charges, leading to lengthy terms.

Overview

  • Police in 2018 found 10-year-old Victoria Martens’ dismembered, partially burned remains at her Albuquerque home after a 911 call.
  • An autopsy reported sexual abuse and detected alcohol in her system at non-impairing levels, after Michelle Martens retracted a claim about methamphetamine.
  • Search warrants state Michelle told investigators she arranged online encounters that let at least three unidentified men abuse the child, with no additional suspects publicly identified.
  • Michelle Martens pleaded guilty in 2018 to child abuse resulting in death, received a 12-year sentence, and was reported released on October 14.
  • Nine counts against Fabian Gonzales, including murder, were dropped before he received 37½ years for child abuse resulting in death and evidence tampering, while Jessica Kelley pleaded guilty in 2022 and got 44 years, with reports she may serve less than half; Gonzales’ lawyer maintains he played no role.