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ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — The three suspects charged in the horrific killing of a 10-year-old New Mexico girl have pleaded not guilty in state court.
Fabian Gonzales, Jessica Kelley and the victim's mother, Michelle Martens, are charged with child abuse resulting in death, kidnapping and tampering with evidence in connection with the killing of Victoria Martens.
The arraignment hearing came three weeks after authorities say the girl was drugged, sexually assaulted and killed Aug. 24.
Police say the girl's mother told investigators after her arrest that the other suspects drugged and assaulted the victim as she watched.
Victoria was found dead by police in her mother's apartment the day she was to celebrate her 10th birthday, with authorities saying her remains had been wrapped in a blanket and set on fire in a bathtub.
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