A second person has been charged in the killing of a 13-year-old boy in Butler Township, Luzerne County. Virginia Delgadillo, the boy’s foster* mother, has been charged with endangering the welfare of children, corruption of minors, and tampering with evidence. This follows the charges of criminal homicide, child endangerment, and evidence tampering against her husband, Cesar Delgadillo, who is the victim’s adoptive* father.
According to a criminal complaint, video cameras inside the Louis Circle home allegedly captured Cesar Delgadillo repeatedly assaulting the teen early Monday morning after being led to believe the victim had been abusing some of the other five children living in the home. Investigators say some of the other children were observed actively cleaning up blood from the scene. Virginia Delgadillo reportedly found the victim unresponsive and called 911.
In an official statement, Luzerne County Manager Romilda P. Crocamo, Esq., clarified that Luzerne County Children Youth and Family (CYF) did not place these children with the adoptive parents. "We cannot call him a parent, as true parents are those who cherish and safeguard their children," Crocamo stated. She further acknowledged the dedication of CYF caseworkers, noting their courageous and compassionate response in promptly bringing the boy's siblings to safety. Crocamo emphasized that these individuals are "everyday heroes" who provide care and affection to children.
Officials say the other children who lived in the home have been removed and placed in a safe location. Both Virginia and Cesar Delgadillo remain locked up in the Luzerne County Correctional Facility without bail. A preliminary hearing for Cesar Delgadillo is tentatively scheduled for August 14.
Note: *WILK News Radio is working to independently confirm the official relationship between the victim and the accused.