This morning, a man accused of causing the death of an 8-month-old San Antonio infant was sentenced to 40 years in prison.
Christopher Davila, 37, was found guilty of injury to a child causing the death of King Jay Davila. Christopher Davila initially reported the boy missing January 4, 2019. He claimed the child had been inside his parked car, which he said he left running. A week later, the child was found dead when Davila led investigators to the site where he had buried the child in a backpack.
Davila’s other pending criminal charges of tampering with evidence by concealing a human corpse, as well as unrelated charges of felon in possession of a firearm and possession of a controlled substance were taken into consideration during his sentencing hearing. Judge Kevin O’Connell of the 227th District Court found Davila guilty and sentenced him to 40 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice Institutional Division.
“King Jay’s death is a tragedy made even worse by Christopher Davila’s cowardice in attempting to conceal it and avoid responsibility. This plea does not bring back a precious life lost, but it does hold Christopher Davila accountable for this horrible crime,” said Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Ryan Groomer and Grant Bryan, Investigator Sheila Sorola, Advocate Amanda Infante and Intern Harrison Watson of the Family Violence Division. It was investigated by the San Antonio Police Department.
“We are pleased to see Davila take responsibility, and hope this sentence sends a message that those who harm children in our community can expect vigorous prosecution,” said Groomer.
Davila must serve at least half of his sentence before he will be eligible for parole.
Davila’s mother, Beatrice Sampayo, and his cousin, Angie Torres, are charged with tampering with evidence in connection with the baby’s death. Tampering with evidence is a third degree felony. If convicted, the punishment range is 2 to 10 years in prison. Because these cases are still pending, we can make no further comment.