A Cuban immigrant in Miami is confronting serious charges related to child abuse, neglect, and arson. Authorities allege she poured hot wax on her young daughter and set a fire in her home.
Charges and Initial Incident
Meliza Campos-Sanchez faces charges including two counts of child neglect, one count of child abuse, and an arson charge. These charges stem from an incident on August 16. A court has ordered a mental competency evaluation for her.
Deputies responded to a reported fire in the kitchen of Campos-Sanchez’s home. Investigators discovered videos online, uploaded by Campos-Sanchez, showing her pouring melted candle wax on herself and one of her daughters. Another video allegedly showed her dancing and singing before setting clothing on fire using a lighter.
Details from the Criminal Complaint
The complaint specifies that her daughters, aged 3 and 6, were involved in the incident. Campos-Sanchez allegedly reassured them not to fear as she dropped hot wax on one of their hands, although no injuries were visible. One daughter informed an arson detective that they witnessed their mother igniting a shirt, resulting in a fire while they were inside.
Legal and Immigration Concerns
Following her arrest, officers could not interview Campos-Sanchez because she was sedated. Homeland Security stated that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) lodged a detainer with the local jail, requesting notification before her potential release.
Campos-Sanchez entered the U.S. illegally through Florida in May 2022 during the Biden administration, according to ICE. The Department of Homeland Security criticized current border policies, suggesting they allowed her entry. ICE aims to ensure her removal following legal proceedings.
Court Proceedings and Mental Health Concerns
During her initial court appearance, Campos-Sanchez’s defense requested a competency evaluation. The judge instructed evaluations by two Spanish-speaking doctors. Her family has expressed concern about her mental health. Her husband mentioned past efforts to seek help and contact police due to mental health worries. Relatives noted she had been on medication but ceased taking it.
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