February 9, 2008
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Lesbian Mom Convicted In Murder Of Infant Son
(New York City) A New York City woman has been found guilty of killing her 23-month-old son. Her partner is already serving a sentence for her part in the murder.
Zahira Matos, 23, faces a sentence of 15 years to life behind bars for the death of Yovany Tellez who was beaten to death in September 2004 while being reprimanded for soiling himself.
Matos’ partner, Carmen Molina, 35, is serving a 15 year sentence after pleading guilty last May.
Matos stood silently, showing no emotion, as the jury read its verdict. She will be sentenced next month.
Each woman had blamed the other for the boy’s death.
Molina delivered the fatal blows in a drunken stupor. Matos waited almost five hours before calling 911.
An autopsy found the infant suffered broken ribs, a broken leg and a pulverized liver. He was bruised extensively over his body and was covered in feces when found.
In his summation to the jury Assistant District Attorney Kerry O’Connell said that Matos was on trial “for what she did not do.”
Matos’ lawyer, Arthur Friedman, said that he will appeal the verdict.
Her two surviving children are in the care of their grandmother.
©365Gay.com 2008
