Engelica Castillo was convicted of murder, two counts of neglect of a dependent, battery and false informing in connection with the death of Jada Justice, a Lake County prosecutor announced Thursday. Castillo was convicted after a Lake Superior Court jury deliberated about two hours.
On Friday, the jury will hear arguments as to whether Castillo should be sentenced to life in prison without parole.
Castillo was babysitting the toddler when prosecutors say she beat the child then dumped her body in a swamp.
Castillo's then-boyfriend, Timothy Tkachik, was also watching the child. He pleaded guilty to a neglect charge in June and testified against Castillo. Tkachik faces a maximum term of 50 years in prison when he is sentenced September 10.
