Edna, Texas – The aunt of a 16-year-old Lizbeth Medina, who was allegedly killed by Rafael Govea Romero, an illegal immigrant with a criminal history, is advocating for stricter laws to prevent offenders from receiving lenient probation terms. Romero, a 24-year-old undocumented male from Mexico, is accused of stalking and fatally stabbing Medina in their Edna apartment in December 2023.
Reportedly on probation for a burglary in Schulenburg, Texas, Romero has been linked to a burglary at Lizbeth’s home a month prior to her tragic death. Ana Medina, the victim’s aunt, questions why individuals with more serious criminal records are given more freedom compared to those with lesser offenses, arguing for tighter restrictions for those on probation, especially for habitual felony offenders.
In an emotional plea on “America’s Newsroom,” Ana stressed the importance of not showing leniency to individuals with criminal pasts, advocating for stricter consequences for those with violent tendencies. ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Houston placed an immigration detainer on Romero following his arrest, focusing on felonies and highlighting the need for stricter legislation.
Jacqueline Medina, Lizbeth’s mother, discovered her daughter’s lifeless body in the bathtub after she failed to show up for school or a Christmas parade practice. The family had no prior connection to Romero, but authorities managed to track him down using cellphone data and other evidence linking him to the burglary.
Despite Romero pleading not guilty at a recent court hearing, his defense attorney, Chris Iles, maintains his client’s innocence and looks forward to presenting his case in court. Ana continues to advocate for justice for Lizbeth, emphasizing the devastating impact of the loss on their family and standing by her sister throughout the ordeal.
The tragic story of Lizbeth Medina’s untimely death serves as a stark reminder of the importance of enforcing stricter laws to hold violent offenders accountable and prevent similar tragedies from occurring. The family’s call for justice resonates with many who believe in the need for tougher measures to protect communities from individuals with criminal histories.