Parents of missing California baby plead not guilty in murder case

Jake and Rebecca Haro, the parents accused of killing their 7-month-old baby, Emmanuel, went before a judge in Riverside, California, on Thursday where they pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The couple is accused of murdering Emmanuel who, according to prosecutors, endured prolonged abuse.

“He was abused over a period of time,” said Riverside County District Attorney Michael Hestrin. “Both parents would have been aware of that abuse.”

The Haros face charges of murder and filing a false police report after Rebecca told authorities her baby was kidnapped after she was assaulted outside a Big 5 Sporting Goods store in Yucaipa on August 14. They held a news conference pleading for Emmanuel’s safe return. However, authorities found inconsistencies in their story and later determined the kidnapping never occurred.

Both were arrested at their home in Cabazon, a small desert community northwest of Palm Springs, on Aug. 22. The child’s remains still have not been located.

At the time of his arrest, Jake Haro was already on probation for a prior child abuse conviction involving his then-10-week-old daughter, Carolina, who suffered horrific injuries including broken bones and brain trauma.

“She is still alive today, but she is permanently bedridden,” Hestrin said. “She has permanent damage, cerebral palsy, that is a result of long-term child abuse.”

Hestrin criticized the visiting judge in the prior case for allowing Jake Haro to be released on probation. “He decided that Mr. Haro deserved an extra break and work release,” he said. “That decision was absolutely outrageous.”

Both Jake and Rebecca Haro are being held on $1 million bonds and are scheduled to return to court for a conference on Sept. 16.

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