February 21, 2025 – CBI – Conejos County, CO –Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) Special Agent Andrew (A.J.) Marceau and Special Agent Courtney Norman along with Conejos County Sheriff’s Investigator Laura Amaya and Lieutenant Tony Galvez were honored by 12th Judicial District Attorney Anne Kelly and Conejos County Sheriff Garth Crowther at the Conejos County Commissioner's meeting on February 20, 2025, for their exceptional work in solving a tragic child abuse case.
The case involved the death of a 23-month-old child in January 2023. The child, while in the care of babysitter Denise Cordova, suffered fatal injuries. Cordova initially claimed the child fell from a stroller, but medical professionals determined the injuries were inconsistent with that account. The Conejos County Sheriff's Office initiated an investigation and requested assistance from the CBI.
Through diligent investigation, Special Agents Marceau and Norman and Conejos County Deputies Amaya and Galvez helped uncover the truth, leading to the arrest of Denise Cordova (DOB: 03/03/1975) on February 24, 2023. On January 15, 2025, Cordova pleaded guilty to Murder in the 2nd Degree and is scheduled to be sentenced on April 14, 2025. Cordova faces 26 to 38 years in prison.
“You guys exceeded our expectations and it made it easier to heal. I know if my daughter were here today she’d give you a big hug. You guys honored her like she was one of your own, “said Dreamishia Guerrero, mother of the deceased child. “There are no words for how grateful my family is. We thank you guys for all your hard work. You are truly amazing.”
Conejos County Sheriff Garth Crowther and 12th Judicial District Attorney Kelly recognized the deputies and agents' dedication and expertise, which were instrumental in securing justice for the victim's family and the Conejos County community. The successful resolution of this difficult case underscores the importance of interagency collaboration and the commitment of law enforcement to protecting children.
From Left to Right: Armando Quintana, Dreamishia Guerrero, 12th Judicial D.A. Anne Kelly, (19-month old Alinna Quintana), CCSO Investigator Laura Amaya, CBI Agent A.J. Marceau, CBI Agent Courtney Norman, CCSO Lt. Tony Galvez
Denise Cordova: Courtesy of Conejos County Sheriff's Office.