GLENWOOD SPRINGS, Colo. — Prosecutors in Colorado have charged a woman in the death of her 5-year-old daughter after authorities said the girl died of methamphetamine intoxication from drinking water mixed with the drug.
Authorities say Stephanie Alvarado was arrested in late January and was initially charged in Garfield County with suspicion of child abuse resulting in death, possession of a controlled substance and reckless endangerment in the death of Sophia Larson.
Prosecutors say the charges were upgraded Wednesday to the following according to Steve Mallory, chief deputy district attorney for Garfield County:
- 1st degree murder -- extreme indifference
- 1st degree murder -- victim under 12, person in a position of trust
- Child abuse knowingly or recklessly causing death
- Possession of controlled substance
- Tampering with physical evidence
All of the charges are felonies, Mallory said.
Alvarado's lawyer Frank Moya declined to comment on the allegations against her.
Alvarado is due back in court March 5 at 8:15 a.m. for arraignment.
Two other people were facing charges relating to the child's death. It's unclear if they are still suspects in the case. They are:
- Bertha Karina Ceballos-Romo who is facing charges of:
- Child abuse resulting in death
- Tampering with evidence
- Possession of controlled substance – Methamphetamine
- Reckless endangerment
- Daniel Bello Alvarado who is facing charges of:
- Child abuse resulting in death
- Possession of controlled substance – Methamphetamine
- Reckless endangerment.
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