A couple from Whittier were arrested after police say they tried to cross the border into Mexico carrying the body of a 2-year-old girl in a duffel bag.
Johnny Lewis Hartley, 39, and Mercy Mary Becerra, 43, attempted to enter Mexico on Tuesday around noon, according to ABC 7. When Mexican customs agents stopped them, Becerra fled. Harley, who had the duffel bag, was detained.
Agents used an X-ray machine on the bag and found the body inside. Becerra was taken into custody a short time after. Both have been turned over to U.S. officials and they were booked by San Diego police each on one count of murder, reports the Union Tribune.
Hartley has a long criminal history, having pleaded guilty in the past to involuntary manslaughter and possessing a deadly weapon, drug possession, and being a felon in possession of a firearm with a gang enhancement.
According to social media, Becerra is the mother of nine children.
Police believe the couple knew the child but were not related to her. Officials also believe the crime happened in Whittier and are investigating.
