Getty Images/Jeremy Hogan
Sandra Coto-Navarro, a New York City, woman, faces allegations of murdering her building’s superintendent, Jose Portillo, over unpaid rent.
The New York Post reports that the landlord sent the building manager to collect $24,000 in back rent from Sandra Coto-Navarro and her husband. Later, authorities found the manager’s body battered and wrapped in garbage bags.
According to PEOPLE, Jose Portillo’s co-workers alerted police on Tuesday, Jan. 14, around 5 p.m. after he failed to return from Navarro’s apartment. Navarro claimed she gave Portillo $23,000 earlier that day, and he left shortly after. However, police say surveillance footage showed no sign of the building super leaving Navarro’s apartment.
Authorities reported a strong bleach odor at the scene, along with a map and bloodstains near the bed and dresser. The New York City Office of the Chief Medical Examiner revealed that Portillo suffered multiple head injuries, a stab wound to the neck, and cuts behind his knees.
Per The New York Post, Sandra Coto-Navarro was home alone during the fatal attack. Police initially questioned her husband but released him after reviewing evidence confirming he wasn’t present when the incident happened.
Sandra Coto-Navarro faced arraignment on Thursday, January 16, for second-degree murder, tampering with evidence, and weapon possession linked to Jose Portillo’s death. Navarro could serve up to 25 years in prison if found guilty.
Portillo’s ex-wife told the New York Post he was a kind and caring man. He tried to help everyone. He tried to help them and they killed him. Its terrible,”Portillo’s ex-wife said.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz described the case as “a gruesome murder” and she is working diligently to ensure justice is served.
Now, a life has been lost and a family is in upheaval because the defendant allegedly chose to resolve a rent dispute with violence. This is not the way a civilized society operates. The defendant will face justice for this heinous murder,” District Attorney Katz explained.
