PHOENIX — Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell announced that Virginia Lujan (DOB: 03/1969) has been indicted on multiple charges related to the abuse and death of her 13-year-old granddaughter.
Tempe police responded to a 9-1-1 call from Lujan reporting that her granddaughter was unresponsive. Upon arrival, officers found the girl lying on the living room floor with visible bruises and marks across her body. She was rushed to a hospital, where she later died.
During the investigation, officers discovered a modified bunk bed used as a makeshift enclosure where the victim was allegedly confined for extended periods. The home was found in unsanitary conditions.
The victim had a rare form of epilepsy and cognitive impairments, functioning at the level of a 3-year-old.
Charges Against Virginia Lujan:
- Two counts of Child Abuse (Class 4 Felony)
- Two counts of Tampering with Physical Evidence (Class 6 Felony)
- One count of Tampering with a Witness (Class 6 Felony)
- Three counts of Contributing to the Dependency of a Child (Class 1 Misdemeanor)
Lujan is currently being held on a $500,000 secured appearance bond.
Legal Disclaimer: A criminal charge is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
