ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Albuquerque Police have arrested two parents after a 3-month-old infant was hospitalized with life-threatening injuries and signs of narcotics exposure.
Detectives with APD’s Crimes Against Children Unit arrested Johnathan Castillo, 23, who had an outstanding warrant. He now faces multiple charges, including child abuse resulting in great bodily harm, aggravated battery, tampering with evidence, and child abuse.
The infant’s mother, Jessica Brusuelas, 26, was also arrested and charged with reckless child abuse resulting in great bodily harm and failure to report child abuse.
According to police, Brusuelas told detectives that Castillo, her boyfriend and the baby’s father, frequently used fentanyl and meth. She described multiple incidents of physical abuse, including Castillo allegedly striking the baby during feeding and spanking her with both an open hand and closed fist.
On Monday afternoon, Brusuelas called 911 after finding the baby unresponsive with blood around her mouth. Emergency responders arrived at the family’s apartment on Madeira Drive SE, where Castillo handed over the baby but reportedly blocked paramedics from performing life-saving measures.
Medical staff later confirmed the infant had multiple skull fractures, a subdural hemorrhage, and signs of trauma occurring over time. The baby also showed signs of narcotics exposure.
Brusuelas also reported that Castillo had previously whipped their 4-year-old child with a belt while under the influence. That child has been placed in CYFD custody.
Johnathan Castillo
Jessica Brusuelas
