Today Krista Cruz pled guilty to multiple counts of abuse that contributed to the death of her 4-year-old son, James Dunklee.
Cruz pled guilty to abandonment of a child under 13 resulting in death, 2 counts of child abuse, and failure to report abuse.
In December 2019, the little boy was severely beaten and did not survive his injuries.
Cruz is facing up to 22 years behind bars. Sentencing will take place at a later date.

There are two other co-defendants in this case.
Zerrick Marquez pled guilty to causing James’ death. Marquez was sentenced to life in prison.