Florida Couple Accused of Faking Baby’s Existence Arrested in North Carolina

A couple from Hollywood, Florida, Leon Alejandro Jr., 21, and Samantha Feliz, 20, face arrest following a yearlong investigation surrounding their infant’s presumed death. Authorities apprehended them in Rockingham, North Carolina, after they fled while Hollywood police were investigating the child’s disappearance.

Officials with the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office and the U.S. Marshals Service arrested the pair, who now await extradition to Florida. They face multiple felony charges, including aggravated manslaughter and tampering with evidence.

Investigation Details

Authorities began probing the case early in 2025 after discovering that Feliz reportedly gave birth between December 6, 2024, and January 5, 2025. The delivery was reportedly hidden from the public and occurred outside of a formal healthcare facility.

Family members stated that they saw the couple with the newborn during the first month of the child’s life. Afterward, the infant was not seen again. A final photo, dated January 5, 2025, showed the child appearing ill and malnourished.

Suspects’ Denials and Evidence Gathering

Alejandro and Feliz consistently denied the infant’s existence, calling the baby a joke and claiming the pregnancy was a hoax. Despite this, investigators found evidence that included pregnancy photos of Feliz, baby clothing, and other items. Blood-stained materials discovered in a related storage unit matched the DNA of their biological child, building a case against the suspects.

Without a birth certificate or medical documentation, investigators charged Alejandro and Feliz with several offenses related to the infant’s disappearance. These include aggravated manslaughter of a child and providing false information to law enforcement.

Flight and Arrest

After fleeing Florida, the couple was located and arrested in Richmond County at a property belonging to Alejandro’s relative. Sheriff Mark Gulledge commended the collaboration among agencies nationwide, which led to the arrests.

The investigation continues, with authorities withholding further details about the infant’s situation. Efforts to obtain more information from the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office remain unanswered.