By Scott A. Marks, Attorney and David Wolf, Attorney
Published by Child Injury Lawyer Network
In Fresno County, California, CNN reported the horrible circumstances of the death of a 4 year old boy who ultimately was found in a dryer of a nearby apartment. Alex Christopher Mercato, who was only 4 at the time, was molested, sodomized, and drowned in a bathtub by a 14 year old California boy. The 14 year old (Raul Renato Castro) has been charged as an adult. Raul told police that he killed Alex because Christopher said that he was going to tell on Raul for molesting Alex. Raul faces a criminal sentence of up to 32 years if convicted due to his age and California penal / sentencing laws.
The death of Alex Christopher Mercato was tragic and such a loss to his family, church, and the community. One would think that a 14 year old neighbor or friend would not pose a risk or threat to a younger child. It is unfortunate that parents need to be wary of not only adults but other children who are pre-disposed to harm, molest, injury, or kill an innocent child. You can read more about this story at Frenso County Police State that Teen Killed Child to Protect a Secret / Crime.