A couple in Florida has been arrested and charged in connection with the death of their newborn son, after authorities alleged the infant’s death was staged to appear as a sleep-related incident.
Crystal Garcia, 21, and Anfernee Watts, 25, face charges of aggravated manslaughter following the death of their three-week-old baby boy in August 2025. According to investigators, the case came to light months later, leading to their arrest on April 8, 2026, in Hollywood, Florida.
Law enforcement officials allege that the couple attempted to conceal the circumstances surrounding the infant’s death by presenting conflicting accounts to investigators. An arrest affidavit states that both individuals provided inconsistent statements during questioning, which authorities believe were intended to obscure the events leading up to the child’s death.
Investigators further allege that the scene was initially staged to suggest the newborn had died while sleeping. However, inconsistencies in the couple’s statements prompted further scrutiny and ultimately led detectives to question the original explanation provided.
As part of the investigation, Garcia reportedly admitted to touching the unresponsive infant’s eye but is accused of delaying emergency action. Authorities allege that she did not immediately call 911 or inform family members, including her mother, reportedly in an effort to avoid causing distress.
The case has prompted a broader investigation into the circumstances surrounding the infant’s death, with prosecutors continuing to review evidence gathered during the months-long inquiry. Officials have not released additional details regarding potential medical findings or the exact cause of death, citing the ongoing nature of the proceedings.
Both Garcia and Watts remain presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. The case is expected to proceed through the Florida legal system in the coming months as further hearings are scheduled and evidence is presented.
