Dominican Republic couple sentenced to 30 years for child's death

A court in the Dominican Republic has sentenced Yokeiry Coronado de la Cruz and Jeider Montero Medina to 30 years in prison for the torture and murder of a seven-year-old girl in the Los Guandules sector of the National District.

The Second Collegiate Court of the National District found the pair guilty of torture, barbarism, child abuse, and homicide. The victim, who was under their care, died in August 2025 following a pattern of prolonged abuse. Evidence presented during the trial included "horrifying" images and documentation of burns on the child's hands and nails.

Judge Yissel Soto noted that the abuse was "highly abusive, ruthless" and showed an "aggravated contempt for human life." While Coronado expressed regret, Montero Medina maintained his innocence, claiming he was unaware of the extent of the abuse due to his work schedule. However, investigators found evidence on his mobile device and determined he had a "key" connection to the crimes.

In addition to the prison sentences, the court ordered the defendants to pay five million pesos in compensation to the victim's mother.