Full Breakdown
Disturbing Case of Child Abuse and Murder Unfolds in Connecticut
1/30/2026, 3:00:48 AM
Child's Death and Impersonation Scheme
In a chilling case from Connecticut, 22-year-old Jacklyn Goulet testified that she impersonated 11-year-old Jacqueline “Mimi” Torres-Garcia during a Zoom call with the Department of Children and Families (DCF) months after the child had died. This impersonation was allegedly orchestrated by Mimi's mother, Karla Garcia, who feared losing custody of her children if the call did not occur. The testimony was revealed during a probable cause hearing for Garcia and her boyfriend, Jonatan Nanita, both charged with murder and other offenses related to Mimi's death.
Mimi's remains were discovered in a tote bag behind an abandoned home in New Britain in October 2025, with authorities believing she had died in September 2024. Reports indicate that Mimi suffered years of abuse, including being restrained with zip ties and denied food. Goulet, who had never met Mimi, claimed she was told the child was living with an aunt out of state and was unaware of Mimi's death during the DCF call.
Evidence of Abuse and Neglect
During the hearing, Farmington police presented evidence that included Mimi's DNA found on a mattress and other locations in the home. Testimony revealed that Nanita admitted to police that both he and Garcia physically abused Mimi, forcing her to kneel for extended periods. An autopsy indicated that Mimi was severely malnourished, weighing only 27 pounds at the time of her death, with the cause determined as "fatal child abuse with starvation."
Karla Garcia, along with her 28-year-old sister, Jackelyn Leeann Garcia, faces charges related to the abuse, with Jackelyn accused of participating but not charged with murder. The court proceedings are ongoing, with Judge Robert D’Andrea set to determine if there is sufficient evidence to proceed with the case.
Official Statements and Community Response
Tim O’Keefe, an attorney representing Mimi's father, Victor Torres, described Goulet's testimony as "disturbing" and emphasized the family's commitment to holding all responsible parties accountable. O’Keefe is also pursuing a $100 million claim against DCF, highlighting the family's desire for justice in light of the tragic circumstances surrounding Mimi's death.
The case has drawn significant attention, prompting discussions about child welfare and the responsibilities of social services. A DCF spokesperson declined to comment further on the ongoing investigation.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics have raised concerns about the systemic failures that may have contributed to Mimi's prolonged abuse and eventual death. The case has sparked outrage within the community, with many questioning how such a situation could occur without intervention from child protective services.
What's Next
The probable cause hearing will continue, with further testimonies expected to shed light on the circumstances leading to Mimi's death. The community remains on edge as they await the court's decision regarding the future of those charged in this tragic case.
