An Arizona teenager with the mental capacity of a 3-year-old tragically passed away after being found unresponsive and covered in bruises at her family home. The teen’s grandmother, Virginia Lujan, and mother, Jami Hodges, were arrested after investigators discovered that the girl had been kept locked up in a makeshift cage.
On Wednesday morning, the 13-year-old girl was rushed to the hospital by police after her grandmother reported that she was not breathing. Upon further investigation, a cage filled with feces and a foul smell was found inside the home in Tempe. Lujan and Hodges admitted to police that they kept the young girl in the cage, which had been created by removing the lower bunk of a bunk bed and replacing it with makeshift bars, in order to “control her.”
Tempe Police Chief Ken McCoy expressed the community’s shock and commitment to seeking justice for the child. He emphasized the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals and holding those responsible for such heinous acts accountable.
The investigation revealed that the teen had fallen down the stairs on Sunday night, but her grandmother failed to provide medical aid, believing that the child would recover on her own. The mother claimed she was unaware of the fall. The girl was found with bruises and sores in different stages of healing, prompting doctors to perform life-saving efforts at the hospital.
Following the incident, four other children, aged 2 to 15, were removed from the home by the Department of Child Safety. It was also discovered that the children were not attending school, further raising concerns about their well-being.
As the investigation continues, additional charges may be filed against Lujan and Hodges. The case remains ongoing, with police actively seeking more evidence to support potential charges. Hodges was booked and released pending charges, while Lujan remains in police custody.
The tragic death of the 13-year-old girl has sparked outrage and calls for justice in the community. Authorities are determined to uncover the truth and ensure that those responsible for her abuse are held accountable for their actions.
