A woman from New York City has been charged with the murder of her building’s superintendent while he was trying to collect unpaid rent, according to law enforcement officials.
Sandra Coto-Navarro, 48, faced arraignment on January 16 for charges including second-degree murder, tampering with evidence, and possession of a weapon. The victim, 55-year-old Jose Portillo, was reportedly found by police wrapped in trash bags and clothing hidden under a bed in Coto-Navarro’s apartment.
The investigation began after Portillo’s colleagues reported him missing. They became concerned when he did not return from Coto-Navarro’s apartment on January 14 and failed to answer his phone.
Coto-Navarro told police that Portillo had visited her apartment that day but left after she paid him $23,000. However, footage from security cameras did not show him leaving.
When officers returned to the apartment, they discovered Portillo’s body in the bedroom. Police noted a strong smell of bleach and found a mop, along with what seemed to be blood near the bed and a dresser.
The medical examiner concluded that Portillo suffered multiple severe head injuries and had a bag placed over his head, which resulted in his death. There were also wounds on his neck and leg that were inflicted after he had died.
Residents of the building remembered Portillo fondly, recalling that he had been a gardener before becoming the superintendent and describing him as a friendly man.
Coto-Navarro was arrested at the location and was due to appear in court the day after her arraignment. It remains unclear whether she has pleaded to any charges. The district attorney’s office has stated that if found guilty, she could face 25 years to life in prison.
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz labeled this incident a “gruesome murder,” emphasizing the tragedy of losing a life over a rent dispute and the impact on Portillo’s family.
