In a heartbreaking development, 19-year-old Edwin Cosmo Trudeau has pleaded guilty to aiding an offender in connection with the tragic death of 8-month-old Mateo, the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office announced Monday.
As part of a plea deal, Trudeau faces up to 86 months in prison, with his final sentence set for May 5. His girlfriend, Esperanza Rae Harding, the infant’s mother, previously pleaded guilty to second-degree intentional murder and is scheduled for sentencing on March 6.
According to court documents, Harding admitted to drowning her son in a hotel bathroom before placing his body in a backpack and discarding it in a dumpster on February 28, 2024. She later told investigators that Trudeau disliked the baby and had suggested disposing of the body without informing anyone.
Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty addressed the tragic case, stating, “My thoughts are with Mateo’s family. This was a devastating act that Mr. Trudeau attempted to help conceal. While nothing brings Mateo back, both Mr. Trudeau and Ms. Harding are being held accountable for their actions.”
The shocking crime has deeply affected the community, sparking conversations about child safety, mental health, and domestic violence. Officials stress the importance of seeking help in crisis situations and urge anyone facing similar challenges to reach out to available resources.
As the sentencing dates approach, the case continues to serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglect, violence, and poor decision-making.
