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April 15, 2025: District Attorney Hochman Announces Mother Charged with Murdering Her 7-Year-Old Child in Van Nuys
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Graciela Castellanos, 37, is charged with murder in the drowning death of her 7-year-old daughter
VAN NUYS, CA — Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman announced today that Graciela Castellanos, 37, is charged with murder in the drowning death of her 7-year-old daughter in Van Nuys on April 11.
“The alleged facts of this case — where a mother is accused of intentionally taking the life of her young child — are profoundly tragic and deeply unsettling,” District Attorney Hochman said. “Our sympathy goes out to the family and loved ones of this young girl, whose life was cut short far too soon. We are committed to seeking justice through a thorough and fair prosecution and ensuring that the legal process honors the memory of the child and supports the healing of her family.”
Graciela Xiomara Castellanos (dob 5/11/87) of Van Nuys is charged in case 25VWCF00549 with one felony count of murder and one felony count of assault on a child under 8 years old causing death.
On April 11, 2025, the defendant allegedly murdered her 7-year-old daughter at an apartment in Van Nuys. The child was pronounced dead at the scene by first responders.
Defendant Castellanos was arraigned today and pleaded not guilty. A preliminary hearing setting is scheduled for June 17 in Department 112 of the Van Nuys Courthouse. Bail was set at $2 million.
If convicted as charged, Castellanos faces a maximum sentence of 25 years to life in state prison.
The case is being prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney MacKenzie Teymouri of LADA’s Family Violence Division/Complex Child Abuse Section and was investigated by the Los Angeles Police Department Juvenile Division.
The charges filed in this case are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
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