Tragic Case of Jacqueline “Mimi” Torres-Garcia
Jacqueline “Mimi” Torres-Garcia, an 11-year-old girl from Connecticut, was starved to death in fall 2024, her body hidden in a 40-gallon bin and discovered months later on October 8, 2025, behind an abandoned building in New Britain. Her mother, Karla Garcia, and boyfriend Jonatan Nanita face murder charges, while aunt Jackelyn Leeann Garcia is charged with abuse participation.
Key Events
DCF investigated complaints in late 2024/early 2025 but was deceived: Garcia claimed Mimi was visiting an aunt in Virginia. On a January 2025 Zoom call, 22-year-old Jacklyn Goulet impersonated Mimi at Garcia’s request, answering basic questions about siblings and school while Garcia and an aunt were present. Goulet testified she was unaware of Mimi’s death until later, when Garcia allegedly blamed Nanita and threatened silence.
Mimi’s family moved from Farmington in March 2025, transporting her remains until disposal. She weighed just 26-27 lbs. at death, starved for weeks and restrained with zip ties; never reported missing.​
Legal Status
A November 2025 autopsy ruled homicide via fatal child abuse/starvation. Garcia faces murder with special circumstances, conspiracy, cruelty, and body disposal charges; Nanita adds fraud/larceny. Probable cause hearing for Nanita continued January 28, 2026; Judge D’Andrea to rule February 13. A $100M lawsuit against DCF is ongoing.​
| Charge Category | Karla Garcia | Jonatan Nanita | Jackelyn Garcia |
|---|---|---|---|
| Murder | Yes (special circ.) ​ | Yes | No |
| Abuse/Cruelty | Yes | Possible | Yes |
| Cover-up | Conspiracy, disposal ​ | Disposal, fraud | Abuse aid |
If you suspect child abuse, contact Childhelp at 1-800-422-4453 (24/7, confidential).​
