A former Fort Campbell Soldier in Kentucky killed his pregnant wife and caused harm to his unborn child. Now, he will remain behind bars for decades.
A U.S. military judge sentenced former Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Santiago, 33, of the 5th Special Forces to life in federal prison with the potential for parole for the beating death of his wife, Meghan Santiago. Santiago was found guilty and convicted of murder, assault, and bodily injury to their unborn child.
“Megan’s death is a tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends. This tragic event has shaken our entire unit," said the Commander of the 5th Special Forces Group, Col. Brent Lindeman
On Sep. 27, 2021, authorities found Meghan Santiago with life-threatening blunt force injuries on the base. Soon, the victim was rushed to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where doctors tried to save her and performed a C-section on the unborn child. The eight-week-old baby survived, while Meghan Santiago succumbed to her injuries.
The next day, the 5th Special Forces soldier was arrested and booked at the Grayson County Jail.
Family friends described the couple’s marriage as volatile and told authorities Meghan Santiago was intent on leaving the marriage.
The defendant opted to be sentenced by a judge instead of the jury. He received an additional six months for the injury to the unborn child.
Leave a Reply