New Mexico, USA – A woman in New Mexico is facing serious criminal charges after authorities allege she gave birth in a remote portable toilet and left the newborn in its waste tank, leading to the infant's death.
Case Developments
According to authorities, suspect Sonia Crystal Jimenez, 38, arrived at a hospital around 10:30 p.m. on February 7, 2026, having recently given birth but without the baby. Medical staff noted the unusual situation and immediately notified the police.
Jimenez's boyfriend told police they were both at the Burn Lake area, about 6 miles from the hospital, where she had used a portable toilet. When law enforcement arrived to investigate the scene, they discovered the body of a newborn girl inside the toilet's waste tank.
Investigation Findings
According to preliminary investigation results, authorities suspect Jimenez self-delivered the baby, cut the umbilical cord, and left the infant in the waste tank. Autopsy results indicated that the infant inhaled and ingested toilet sanitation fluid while still alive.
Jimenez has been arrested and charged with intentional child abuse resulting in death – a first-degree felony. She is currently being held without bond.
Boyfriend Not Charged
Police stated they do not plan to prosecute the suspect's boyfriend, believing he had no knowledge of the birth.
The local police chief remarked that this was "one of the most heartbreaking and shocking cases" he had handled in his entire career.
