Las Cruces Woman Arrested for Newborn Disposal in Portable Toilet

Police say the woman gave birth, cut the umbilical cord, and placed the baby in the holding tank, leading to the infant's death.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Police in Las Cruces, New Mexico, have arrested 38-year-old Sonia Cristal Jimenez for allegedly giving birth to a baby girl in a portable toilet and disposing of the infant in the holding tank, resulting in the child's death by drowning.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the need for greater access to prenatal and postpartum care, as well as mental health resources, to support vulnerable mothers and prevent such devastating outcomes. It also raises questions about the safety and regulation of portable toilets in public spaces.

The details

According to police, Jimenez gave birth to the baby, cut the umbilical cord, and then placed the newborn in the portable toilet's holding tank, where the infant died by drowning after breathing in and swallowing the blue chemical. Jimenez's boyfriend, who was with her at the time, said he was unaware she had given birth and is unlikely to face charges.

  • On Saturday, February 11, 2026, around 10:30 p.m., Memorial Medical Center staff notified police that Jimenez had arrived at the hospital, appearing to have just delivered a baby, but the baby was not with her.
  • On Monday, February 13, 2026, an autopsy confirmed the baby died by drowning.

The players

Sonia Cristal Jimenez

A 38-year-old woman arrested for allegedly giving birth to a baby girl in a portable toilet and disposing of the infant in the holding tank, resulting in the child's death.

Jimenez's boyfriend

The man who was with Jimenez at the time, but said he was unaware she had given birth and is unlikely to face charges.

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What’s next

Jimenez is being held in the Dona Ana County Detention Center without bond, and the investigation is ongoing.

The takeaway

This heartbreaking case underscores the importance of providing comprehensive support and resources for mothers in crisis, to ensure the safety and wellbeing of both parents and children, and to prevent such tragic outcomes in the future.