Chance Martinez and Felicia Martinez sentenced in Albuquerque child abuse

Chance Martinez and Felicia Martinez received prison terms Monday for severe child abuse in Albuquerque. The pair harmed a 4-year-old child over several months, officials said. Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman announced the sentences on Tuesday.

The abuse happened between November 2024 and February 2025. Investigators learned the young victim was covered in bruises. The child suffered a broken rib, strangulation and whip marks. Abrasions and scars covered the victim from head to toe.

Felicia Martinez pleaded guilty to four charges in March. These included two counts of abandonment of a child resulting in great bodily harm for a child under 13. She also pleaded guilty to two counts of child abuse recklessly caused.

Chance Martinez entered his plea in April. He pleaded guilty to three counts of abandonment of a child resulting in great bodily harm for a child under 13.

The judge handed down the prison terms. Chance Martinez received 20 years in Albuquerque. Felicia Martinez received a 12-year term.

The New Mexico Corrections Department manages state prison facilities. It oversees housing, security and rehabilitation programs for convicted individuals serving felony sentences.

Both defendants will serve their terms in the New Mexico Corrections Department.