CHARLOTTE, N.C. — WCNC Charlotte has chosen to use this mugshot because of the public interest in the case.
A woman who claimed a child she was watching was burned during an alleged robbery at a Monroe home is now accused of lying about what actually happened.
The Monroe Police Department said Wednesday it now had arrest warrants for Maria Esquivel, who originally claimed she was attacked and robbed by an unknown man on April 23, 2024. She also claimed the supposed suspect burned a 2-year-old child she was watching for friends during the incident.
However, detectives said they uncovered evidence that didn't line up with Esquivel's claims. They instead determined the child was burned by incense while left unattended, and that Esquivel admitted she lied about the robbery and assault.
Esquivel was arrested on Thursday, May 23 just before 1 p.m. She is charged with the following:
- Misdemeanor filing a false police report
- Felony child abuse - willful act or omission causing serious bodily injury
- Felony obstruction
The child victim is now recovering at home. He had to be airlifted to Wake Forest Burn Center for treatment of second-degree burns he suffered on his face and head.
Esquivel previously spoke with WCNC Charlotte but was not identified or shown on camera. Reporter Julia Kauffman noted Esquivel had scratches, burns, and even a black eye.
Note: WCNC instituted a policy in March 2021 regarding the broadcast or posting of mugshots.
WCNC will only air or post a mugshot if the person has been formally charged with a crime and in a few other cases. The exceptions include: If it appears the person could be a danger to themselves or others or if they are wanted by authorities; to differentiate between people with a common name; if the photos could encourage more victims to come forward. The news-editorial leadership may also decide to use a mugshot based on the severity of the crime(s) committed and/or the level of public interest in the crime and ensuing criminal proceedings.
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