Albuquerque man pleads no contest in toddler’s death

An Albuquerque man pleaded no contest on Friday to charges connected to the death of a three-year-old girl more than two years ago. He faces up to five years in prison under the plea.

James Welch pleaded no contest to three counts of child abuse and tampering with evidence, according to court records.

Police said Kerri Santos brought her toddler to University of New Mexico Hospital, claiming the child had fallen and hurt herself. Medical staff determined the child was already dead when she arrived and noticed signs of abuse, including evidence the child had been tied up.

Police said Santos and three others were staying at Welch’s home when the abuse took place.