> 14yo teen killed 4yo toddler + sodomy, kidnapping and murder of a witness

Nov 4, 2009 MENDOTA – PROSECUTORS have filed murder and other charges against a 14-year-old central California boy accused in the death of a 4-year-old neighbour boy, whose body was found in a clothes dryer at the teen’s home.

Fresno County District Attorney Elizabeth Egan says the 14-year-old was charged as an adult on Tuesday. Egan says the teen also is facing charges of sodomy, kidnapping and murder of a witness to prevent testimony.

He is due to be arraigned on Wednesday morning. Prosecutors say if eventually convicted, he could be sentenced to life in prison.

Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims says the body of 4-year-old Alex Christopher Mercado was found on Saturday in the 14-year-old’s family home in Mendota. Earlier on Tuesday, Fresno County authorities said Alex was drowned before being stuffed in the dryer. — AP