New Mexico Parents Accused of Abusing 7 Children in Underground Caves

Horrific Discovery in New Mexico

• 🚨 New Mexico State Police discovered a horrific scene where seven children were allegedly subjected to years of physical and sexual abuse by their parents, Melvin and Valerie Cordell.
• 🏠 The children, ranging in age from six months to 16 years old, were reportedly forced to live in underground caves and tunnels on a 35-acre property near Deming.
• 🤢 The property was described as being in extreme squalor, littered with trash, feces, and rotten food.

Allegations of Severe Abuse

• 💔 Court documents detail allegations that the parents exposed their children to extreme weather, human feces, lack of hygiene, and potential dangers from animals and diseases.
• ⚠️ One child, a teenager, was allegedly sexually abused by Melvin Cordell since she was 12 or 13 years old and was forced to undergo an abortion performed by her parents.
• 🍽️ The children were reportedly sometimes starved, with police finding spoiled food and inadequate living conditions.

Investigation and Charges

• 🕵️ The investigation began in October 2024 after a tip about criminal sexual acts involving a child, leading police and child welfare caseworkers to the property.
• 📸 Body camera footage shows officers documenting the dilapidated conditions and attempting to make contact with the parents.
• ⚖️ Melvin Cordell faces 24 felony charges, including child abuse and criminal sexual contact of a minor, while Valerie Cordell faces 18 counts.

Parents' Apprehension and Defense

• 🤝 The Cordells were eventually located and interviewed by investigators on October 24th, appearing cooperative.
• 🏡 The couple was taken into custody on February 21st, 2025, and are being held without bond as they await trial.
• 🌾 Melvin Cordell spoke about being self-sustaining with a vegetable garden, a statement that contrasted sharply with the discovered conditions.