San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas announces Roxanne Denise Helus was arraigned in San Joaquin County Superior Court on one count of second-degree murder, and four felony counts of child abuse/endangerment. Following the arraignment, the Court ordered Helus remanded into custody with no bail, finding by clear and convincing evidence that no condition short of detention would reasonably protect public safety or ensure the defendant’s appearance in court. Helus faces a maximum sentence of life in prison for the following charges:

•   Count 1: PC 187(a) – Second-Degree Murder

•  Count 2: PC 273a(a) – Child Abuse/Endangerment (with special allegation PC 12022.95 – resulting in death)

•   Count 3: PC 273a(a) – Child Abuse/Endangerment

•   Count 4: PC 273a(a) – Child Abuse/Endangerment

•   Count 5: PC 273a(a) – Child Abuse/Endangerment

• Multiple counts include allegations that the defendant took advantage of a position of trust (California Rule of Court 4.421(a)(11)) and that the victims were particularly vulnerable (California Rule of Court 4.421(a)(3)).

  “This case involves the senseless death of an infant and the endangerment of other young children, crimes that strike at the heart of our community’s values,” said San Joaquin County District Attorney Ron Freitas. “My office will pursue justice for these innocent victims and hold the defendant fully accountable under the law. Protecting our children is our highest priority, and the actions that lead to the death of this infant will face the full force of prosecution.”

   

  This remains an on-going investigation.

   The defendant is ordered to appear for further arraignment on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. in Department M1. She will remain in custody pending trial.