ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — A sentencing hearing is scheduled Tuesday for the stepfather of a 9-year-old Albuquerque boy who authorities said was kicked to death by his mother.
Stephen Casaus was convicted in September of charges that included child abuse, tampering with evidence and intimidation of a witness in connection with the case of his stepson.
Jurors ruled Casaus acted with reckless disregard on the day Omaree Varela died in December 2014, but cleared Casaus of a more serious charge — child abuse resulting in death.
An autopsy found Omaree died from severe internal bleeding caused by blunt-force trauma.
Omaree's mother is charged with child abuse resulting in death.
A hearing on whether she is competent to stand trial was scheduled for Monday, but court records say it will be rescheduled.