San Antonio dad arrested for alleged starvation, torture, and death of young son
02/25/2022 10:02 am PST
SAN ANTONIO (TCD) -- A 28-year-old Texas man was arrested for allegedly starving his 4-year-old son, which ultimately led to the boy's death.
According to KABB-TV, which cites the arrest report, San Antonio Police responded to a call at Children's Hospital on Aug. 17, 2021, because medical officials were reportedly concerned about Benjamin Cervera's injuries, including bruises on his body. The boy was reportedly very thin, and he ultimately died before police could get there. Homicide detectives then took over the investigation.
KABB reports Benjamin was only wearing a disposable diaper and looked malnourished. Benjamin's father, Brandon Cervera, reportedly told detectives Benjamin gave himself the bruises. During the investigation, detectives obtained a relative's cell phone and found evidence of Brandon allegedly denying his son food. Videos and photos on the phone reportedly show Benjamin "hitting himself on the head with his hands and asking for bread."
Additionally, the arrest report cited by KABB says Benjamin could be seen "shaking uncontrollably, crying, and begging for bread and water." Brandon allegedly made Benjamin eat bread crumbs off the floor, but without using his hands.
According to KSAT-TV, Brandon allegedly made Benjamin drink hand sanitizer. Benjamin reportedly lived in a locked room with a urine-stained mattress on the floor.
KSAT reports Benjamin's cause of death was starvation.
Bexar County Jail records show Brandon is being held on a charge of injury to a child, and his bond is set at $500,000.
MORE:
