'Mental illness is not an excuse to hurt anyone.' Mother of slain Mott Haven teenager calls for new state law
Jennifer Baez called on city and state leaders Tuesday to create a law that anyone accused of killing a minor cannot claim mental illness as a first line of defense.
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A Bronx mother is demanding new action after her teenage son was killed last month in Mott Haven.
Jennifer Baez called on city and state leaders Tuesday to create a law that anyone accused of killing a minor cannot claim mental illness as a first line of defense.
Police said Baez’s son, 14-year-old Caleb Rijos, was on his way to school when he was fatally stabbed in an unprovoked attack.
It happened on Jan. 10 near 3rd Avenue and 138th Street in Mott Haven.
Police arrested and charged 29-year-old Waldo Mejia. Authorities said Mejia has a lengthy criminal history and mental health issues.
During his court appearance, the judge said they are waiting for test results to see if Mejia is mentally fit to stand trial.
Baez said her son did not deserve to die, and the justice system failed their family.
“It’s not fair, it’s not,” Baez said. “[Mental illness is] not an excuse to hurt anyone. I have mental illness myself, and I'm not going out hurting anyone.”
The family also created an online petition calling for similar change.
Mejia is being held at Rikers Island and expected back in court on March 4.
