Barahona Neighbors Relieved After Carmen's Arrest

MIAMI (CBS4) – People who lived near the home of Carmen and Jorge Barahona said they are relieved that Carmen Barahona had been arrested Saturday for her alleged part in the death of her adopted daughter and torture of her adopted son.

She was charged with first degree murder, and 7 counts each of child abuse and child neglect. Her husband Jorge is expected to face similar charges.

CBS4's Tiffani Helberg was in the neighborhood to talk to those who knew the family and the twin adopted children that were allegedly  tortured – and one killed.

"It's scary, no one ever even seen those little kids," said Amera Franklin, one neighbor.

Victor Barahona, 10, dosed in a toxic chemical, was rescued from his adoptive father's pickup truck Valentines Day, while his twin sister's decomposing body, stuffed into a plastic bag, lay in the truck's bed.

A road ranger found the grisly scene alongside Interstate 95 in Palm Beach County.

Jorge Barahona lay outside the truck, also doused in a chemical.

Jorge Barahona is now in jail facing a series of charges that include First Degree Murder for the killing of Nubia Barahona, and attempted murder of Victor.

Victor has since been released from Jackson Memorial Hospital into the protective care of a therapeutic foster family, and will require continued medical attention for his burns, and counseling for his ordeal.

"I never hear some noises," said Leyda Alonso, another neighbor,. "It was a mystery family over there."

The tragedy has torn apart those who didn't even know the Barahonas.

Its one of the worst child abuse cases Florida has ever seen.

"I think she should be arrested, that she should be held responsible for what happened to that poor little girl," Franklin said.

Another neighbor is equally appalled.

"She knew what was going on in that house, and she permitted it," said David Johnson,  another neighbor, "I think that's disgusting.  I think she should get the electric chair, that's what I think, honestly."

Meanwhile, those who do not even live in the neighborhood also stopped by the Barahona home. Mikaela Gomez, 8,  and her brother Pedro Gomez, 14, left a stuffed animal at a growing curbside memorial.

"I came out here to leave it because I think that she did not deserve what happened to her, and its very sad that it happened," Pedro Gomez said.

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