A Balch Springs woman has been arrested after police discovered her malnourished autistic daughter deceased in their home.
Discovery of the Victim
On February 14, police responded to a 911 call from 41-year-old Crystal Gail Canales, who reported that her 19-year-old daughter, Delilah Villegas, was having difficulty breathing.
Upon arrival at their home on Horseshoe Trail, first responders immediately noticed a strong foul odor coming from Villegas’ bedroom. Inside, officers found her curled up in a near-fetal position, showing signs of rigor and livor mortis, indicating she had been deceased for at least six hours to a day.
Signs of Neglect and Abuse
Villegas appeared extremely malnourished, with multiple bruises, contusions, and deep wounds exposing bone. Investigators also noted she had been lying in the same position for an extended period. Family members told authorities that Villegas had severe autism and was nonverbal.
Mother’s Statements and Arrest
According to police, Canales admitted to treating her daughter’s wounds with Neosporin but did not seek medical care, claiming Villegas would become violent. She also told investigators that her daughter had been breathing and walking around earlier that day.
However, detectives concluded that Villegas should have received medical attention and that Canales’ failure to seek help constituted reckless conduct.
On Friday, Canales was arrested and is expected to be charged with injury to a disabled person. She was taken to the Balch Springs jail and was awaiting transfer to Dallas County jail. It was unclear whether she had retained legal representation.
