Marlon Botas sentenced to 70 years for feminicide of Monserrat Bendimes

A Mexican court has sentenced Marlon Botas to 70 years in prison for the 2021 feminicide of Monserrat Bendimes, a case that spurred the creation of a law against familial concealment of such crimes. Source: excelsiormx, infobae, heraldomx

The sentencing

The ruling, delivered on July 16, 2026, in Xalapa, Veracruz, rejected the defense's request for a minimum 40-year sentence. Source: excelsiormx The judge emphasized that Botas "pudo detenerse antes del golpe" (could have stopped before the blow) and failed to aid the victim. Source: excelsiormx Alongside prison time, the court ordered restitution, suspension of civil and political rights, and public reeducation. Source: lajornadamx

The victim's family

Monserrat's mother, Cecilia Roldán, stated, "Se hizo justicia para mi hija" (Justice was done for my daughter) and expressed hope for a calmer grief process. Source: excelsiormx, infobae She declined to pursue further legal action against Botas's parents, who had assisted his escape. Source: infobae

Broader impact

The case led to the "Ley Monse," which criminalizes relatives who aid in covering up feminicides, now active in seven states. Source: infobae (EFE) The sentencing coincides with a federal initiative against feminicide presented by President Claudia Sheinbaum. Source: infobae (EFE)