Albuquerque woman pleads guilty in 3-year-old’s death, faces 15 years

An Albuquerque woman pleaded guilty Monday in connection with the death of a 3-year-old girl, facing a maximum of 15 years in prison. Christina Pena-Cantor entered a plea agreement with the state in court.

According to Albuquerque police, Kerri Santos brought her 3-year-old into the University of New Mexico Hospital in 2024, claiming the toddler had fallen in the bathroom. Medical professionals determined the toddler was already dead when she arrived and noticed signs of abuse on the body.

Police say Pena-Cantor was travelling with Santos during that time and was present during the abuse. One of Santos’ children who witnessed the abuse also says Pena-Cantor would tie up the three-year-old.

A sentencing date has not been announced.