Joel arciniega-saenz guilty of decapitating man, playing soccer with his head at public park

Joel Arciniega-Saenz Guilty of Decapitating Man, Playing Soccer With His Head at Public Park

by
March 6, 2025
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LAS CRUCES, N.M. — A New Mexico man has been convicted of first-degree murder for stabbing another man 84 times, beheading him, and then kicking the severed head around a public park, prosecutors announced.

A jury found 28-year-old Joel Arciniega-Saenz guilty in the brutal killing of 51-year-old James Garcia, which took place on June 20, 2021, at Apodaca Park in Las Cruces. The Doña Ana District Attorney’s Office said the case had been delayed due to concerns over Arciniega-Saenz’s mental competency.

Authorities said Arciniega-Saenz, who was homeless and living in the park at the time, used a switchblade to attack Garcia. Prosecutors also stated that the assailant cut off one of Garcia’s fingers during the incident.

“We remained committed to seeking justice despite significant legal challenges,” District Attorney Fernando Macias said.

The conviction closes a case that left the community stunned by its level of violence.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

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