Stockton, CA - In a somber but significant moment for justice, San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas announced the conviction of Mathew Garcia in the death of his infant son, Emiliano Garcia. The verdict was delivered in Judge Thomasson’s courtroom, marking a pivotal moment in the fight against child abuse within our community.

Emiliano Garcia, born on August 22, 2020, was subjected to a life of pain rather than the nurturing environment every child deserves. On November 10, 2020, after showing signs of distress, the infant was diagnosed with thrush at St. Joseph’s Emergency Room. Later that evening, under the care of Mathew Garcia, Emiliano suffered from severe symptoms that led to his tragic death on November 14, 2020, due to craniocerebral trauma from repeated violent acts.

Mathew Garcia was found guilty on multiple counts, including child abuse resulting in death, child abuse with great bodily injury, and a misdemeanor count of child abuse. His actions, driven by anger, included violently shoving a bottle into Emiliano's mouth, shaking him, kicking him, and throwing him into a bathtub, actions which ultimately led to the infant's untimely death.

During the proceedings, Judge Thomasson found true the allegations regarding the defendant's prior convictions: an attempted robbery and first-degree burglary from November 19, 2019. As a result, Mathew Garcia faces 50 to 75 years to life. Sentencing is scheduled for April 14, 2025. 

District Attorney Ron Freitas stated, "This verdict is not just a legal victory; it's a moral imperative. We have made it unequivocally clear that the brutalization of our children will face the full force of the law. We owe it to Emiliano to ensure his memory drives our resolve to protect every child from such horrors."

The District Attorney's Office extends profound thanks to:

• UC Davis Children’s Hospital for their expertise in child abuse cases.
• Dr. Pena from the San Joaquin County Medical Examiner’s Office for crucial medical evidence.
• Detective Richard Keiser of the Stockton Police CASA Unit, whose investigation was instrumental in unveiling the truth.
• The jury for their careful deliberation in this heart-wrenching case.
• Judge Thomasson for overseeing the trial with the gravity it demanded.
• Deputy District Attorney Elton Grau for his dedication and prowess in prosecuting this case.

We remain committed to safeguarding our community's children, ensuring that justice is not only served but seen through to its fullest extent.

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