Death of Arizona teen grandma kept in feces-covered cage ruled a homicide

An Arizona grandmother, Virginia Lujan, faced charges of child abuse after keeping her mentally impaired granddaughter locked in a feces-filled cage until the girl, Melony Granados, covered in wounds, ultimately died. Melony, who had the mental capacity of a 3-year-old, was subjected to brutal beatings and confinement by her grandmother.

Authorities in Tempe ruled Melony’s death a homicide after examining her body and the horrific living conditions she endured. Lujan, who passed away in jail last month, had locked Melony in a makeshift cage surrounded by baby cages and bars, creating a deplorable environment filled with filth and a foul odor.

Melony was found unresponsive on January 22 and later died in the hospital. Lujan initially claimed that Melony had fallen down the stairs, but further investigation revealed that the girl’s wounds were in various stages of healing, indicating prolonged abuse.

Melony’s mother, Jami Hodges, who was not living with her daughter, was also implicated in the abuse. Both Lujan and Hodges admitted to keeping Melony in the cage to control her. Hodges, who also faces child abuse charges, denied knowledge of the injuries sustained by Melony.

Lujan and Hodges were indicted on multiple charges, including child abuse, tampering with physical evidence, and tampering with a witness. While Lujan passed away before formal charges could be brought against her, authorities claim her death was due to natural causes. Hodges, on the other hand, has been released pending charges.

Hodges has four other children who are now under the care of the Arizona Department of Child Safety. The investigation into Melony’s tragic death continues, shedding light on the horrifying abuse she endured at the hands of her own family.