Justice for Baby Araceli
April 18, 2025 – Turlock Police Department and the Stanislaus County District Attorney officials issued the following statements on the recent conviction in the death of baby Araceli Rendon.
The Turlock Police Department acknowledges the jury’s decision in the tragic case involving the murder of 2-month-old Araceli Rendon.
We are deeply saddened by the loss of this innocent life. Our thoughts remain with Araceli’s loved ones and all those impacted by this heartbreaking case.
This investigation began in April 2022, and our officers and detectives worked diligently to uncover the truth, gather critical evidence, and ensure accountability. We are grateful for the collaboration with the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office, and for the jury’s careful deliberation in reaching this verdict.
We remain committed to seeking justice for victims, especially the most vulnerable members of our community.
Statement from the Stanislaus County District Attorney Jeff Laugero:
Stanislaus County District Attorney Jeff Laugero announced that Joseph Rendon, age 26 of Turlock, was convicted by the jury of murder and felony child abuse causing death for the murder of his 2-month-old daughter, Araceli.
The conviction relates to an incident that occurred on April 13, 2022. On that date, Rendon had been watching Araceli at his residence alone. At around 3:00 p.m. on that day, Rendon took Araceli to the hospital and stated she had stopped breathing after he had fed her. Araceli was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. Due to the lack of visible external injuries to Araceli, a cause of death could not be determined.
An autopsy was conducted the next day where it was discovered that Araceli had multiple fractures to her skull and significant brain damage. The autopsy revealed the cause of death was related to blunt force trauma to the head.
Shortly after the autopsy, Rendon was interviewed and admitted to hitting Araceli’s head against a metal object multiple times because she would not stop crying.
Rendon is facing life in prison and will be sentenced on July 14, 2025. Assistant Chief District Attorney Samuel Luzadas prosecuted the case on behalf of the People. The Turlock Police Department investigated this crime and apprehended the suspect.
Source & photo: Stanislaus County District Attorney
