Former marine sentenced for murder of girl in Madera County

MADERA COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- Emotions were high in a Madera courtroom Tuesday as a judge sentenced a Madera man for the murder of 16-year-old Josephine Jimenez.

"Second plea, murder, court imposes 15 years to life in state prison," said Madera judge Ernest J. LiCalsi.

Ex-marine Codi Slayton pleaded guilty to the crime earlier this year and had some of the few dry eyes in the courtroom.

He was not only sentenced for second-degree murder but also had to register as a sex offender.

"Based on the circumstances of this crime, he also is going to have to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life," said prosecuting attorney Miguel Valdovinos.

On October 13, 2019, Josephine Jimenez was not in her room when her mom woke her up for school.

That was the moment their lives were changed forever.

The family began posting flyers and searching for her.

Ten days later, it was their worst nightmare when detectives found her dead.

Impact statements from Josephine's sister and uncle were read in court Tuesday.

In a statement, Alexis Jimenez, the victim's sister, said, "he destroyed my family. He took away the most beautiful soul."

Jimenez's uncle said, "The day I found out that she was gone broke me. I'm still broken now."

Deputies say Slayton used social media to get in contact with Josephine and other girls across the state.

Josephine's father, Raymond Jimenez, expressed his outrage for Slayton in front of the court.

"I just have so much hate for this man, and I hope he never does come out again," said Raymond.

Defense attorney Craig Collins says his client is a broken young man but has been nothing but professional.

"At this point, my client only has one option here, and that is to try and better himself," said Collins.

In a statement, Alexis Jimenez said the family wanted Slayton to get more time, writing, "15 years is so minimal in comparison to the crime committed. He only allowed my sister to live 16 years."

Prosecuting Attorney Miguel Valdovinos says they understand what is happening and they are thankful he is behind bars.

"They are glad that he is now going to prison, and he's not going to be at large, and there is justice for Josephine," said Valdovinos.

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