DEMING, N.M. (KRQE) – A New Mexico couple is behind bars after New Mexico State Police said they are suspected of child abuse. Investigators learned a report was made to the New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department regarding the abuse of multiple siblings in Deming.
They said minors were living in horrific conditions, sleeping outdoors, and at least one of the children was sexually abused. NMSP identified the suspects as 50-year-old Melvin Cordell and 41-year-old Valerie Cordell. Both are facing 16 counts of child abuse.