Marlon Botas Found Guilty of Feminicide of Montserrat Bendimes in Veracruz

A Veracruz judge has declared Marlon Botas Fuentes guilty of the feminicide of Montserrat Bendimes Roldán, more than five years after the crime. The verdict was delivered on July 9, 2026, concluding a prolonged legal battle that drew widespread public attention.

The verdict

After a virtual hearing, the judge ruled that the prosecution had proven beyond reasonable doubt that Botas caused the fatal injuries. The defense’s claim that the death was accidental was rejected. Source: infobae The formal sentence, expected to range between 40 and 70 years in prison, will be determined in a hearing on July 16. Source: heraldomx

Background

Montserrat, 21, was brutally beaten by her boyfriend at her home in Boca del Río on April 17, 2021. She died six days later. Botas fled and remained a fugitive for over a year, allegedly aided by his parents. Their involvement led to public outrage and the creation of "Ley Monse," a law targeting accomplices of feminicides. Source: heraldomx The mother of the victim, Cecilia Roldán, stated after the verdict: "We got justice... I only want my daughter to rest in peace." Source: infobae

What's next

The sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 16, where the judge will determine the exact prison term. The family's lawyer confirmed that all evidence presented was licit and conclusive. Source: heraldomx