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Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – A stepfather has been indicted on murder charges in the death of his 16-year-old stepson. Steven Griffin is facing eight counts, including first-degree murder, related to what Sangamon County State’s Attorney John Milhiser says is “prolonged abuse” that led to Daniel Garza’s death.
Griffin allegedly failed to provide enough food and water for the teen and reportedly is responsible for the blunt force head and body injuries that led to the Garza’s death.
The family had been living out of hotels after moving to Springfield in November from Washington state. Garza was taken to HSHS St. John’s Hospital emergency room in late January by his mother. He was non-responsive, not breathing, had a body temperature of 86 degrees and weighed 94 pounds. Garza had a subdural hemorrhage, multiple bruises, fractures and burns.
Garza was transferred to St. Louis and then Indianapolis for treatment but died Feb. 7.
Griffin has also been indicted in another case and is facing criminal sexual abuse, indecent solicitation of a child, grooming, and sexual exploitation charges related to his interactions with a 16-year-old Springfield girl.
He remains in the Sangamon County Jail, and his next court appearance is set for March 24.