WOODLAND—
The mother facing a murder charge after her 5-year-old daughter was found dead in the trunk of her car has pleaded not guilty.
A public defended entered the plea for 29-year-old Aquelin Talamantes at the Yolo County Superior Court Monday afternoon. Talamantes was arrested back on Thursday in Sacramento after police showed up at an apartment complex near Pocket Road and W. Shore Drive to check on the welfare of the girl.
Tatianna Garcia, as authorities have identified 5-year-old, was found unresponsive in the trunk of Talamantes’ car. She was later pronounced dead.
Talamantes’ Davis home was searched later Thursday evening as authorities continued their investigation.
In total, Talamantes is facing one count of murder and a felony charge of assault on a child under eight with force likely to produce great bodily injury resulting in death.
Cecilio Padilla contributed to this report.