by Yucaipa, California – The parents of a 7-month-old baby who was reported missing earlier this month have been arrested and accused of murder, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. Authorities now believe the child, Emmanuel Haro, is dead, though his remains have not yet been found.
Parents Arrested in Cabazon
Sheriff’s homicide detectives arrested Jake Haro, 32, and Rebecca Haro, 41, at their home in Cabazon on Friday. Both were booked on suspicion of murder and are being held without bail at a Riverside County jail, officials confirmed.
“This is a heartbreaking case. While these arrests mark a significant development, our focus remains on finding Emmanuel,” the department said in a statement.
Initial Kidnapping Report
The case began on August 14, when Rebecca Haro told deputies her son had been kidnapped outside a Big 5 Sporting Goods store in Yucaipa, about 70 miles east of downtown Los Angeles.
She initially claimed that while she was in her vehicle changing Emmanuel’s diaper, a man she didn’t know knocked her unconscious. When she regained consciousness, she said, the baby was gone.
Investigation Uncovers Inconsistencies
Detectives later confronted Rebecca Haro with inconsistencies in her story, after which she declined to continue the interview. Authorities say evidence collected in the investigation led them to determine that no kidnapping occurred in Yucaipa.
San Bernardino County Sheriff Shannon Dicus stated:
“I trust our justice system will hold the parents accountable.”
Ongoing Search for Emmanuel
Although both parents are in custody, the search for Emmanuel’s remains continues. Authorities are not looking for any additional suspects at this time.
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Meanwhile, the Uvalde Foundation For Kids, which had previously announced plans to conduct an independent search and offered a $5,000 reward, canceled those efforts earlier this week.
Legal Proceedings
According to NBC News, Jake Haro’s attorney could not be immediately reached for comment. It is unclear whether Rebecca Haro has retained or been assigned legal representation.
Both parents remain jailed pending further court action.
Community Response
The case has left the local community shaken. Many residents of Yucaipa and Cabazon expressed sorrow and frustration that what began as an Amber Alert-style case of a missing infant has now turned into a homicide investigation.
What Do You Think?
This case has raised questions about child safety, trust, and the justice system. Do you believe authorities acted quickly enough in uncovering the truth? Share your thoughts and reactions in the comments at ibwhsmag.com and join the discussion.
