Virginia Nicasio convicted of first-degree murder in 2024 Albuquerque torture killing
A jury found Virginia Nicasio guilty of first-degree murder in Albuquerque. She faces at least 30 years in state prison for the fatal beating. Jurors reached the verdict in the 2024 killing and torture of Antonio Taylor.
Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman described the motive. Nicasio operated within a drug network, according to Bregman. She believed Taylor stole property from her.
Nicasio persuaded Preston Ball to kidnap, beat and torture Taylor. Ball previously pleaded guilty for his role in the Albuquerque crime. He admitted to the acts.
“Our prosecutors are relentless and never give up, especially in a brutal case like this one. We remain committed to pursuing justice for victims and holding those responsible for violent crimes accountable,” said Bregman in a social media post.
Nicasio now faces a minimum sentence of 30 years in the New Mexico Corrections Department.
First-degree murder cases in Albuquerque move to formal sentencing hearings following a jury trial. The state corrections department manages adult prison facilities across New Mexico.
The district attorney announced the final verdict online.
