Riverside DA Seeks 31 Years for Father in Baby’s Murder

UPDATE: The Riverside County District Attorney’s Office is pushing for a minimum of 31 years in prison for Jake Haro when he is sentenced on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, for the murder of his 7-month-old son, Emmanuel Haro. This shocking case has captured national attention and has raised urgent questions about child safety and justice.

Haro, aged 32, pleaded guilty on October 16 to charges including second-degree murder and assault on a child under 8 causing death. The prosecution argues that Haro deserves the maximum possible sentence due to the heinous nature of his crimes. Assistant District Attorney Brandon Smith stated, “There is nothing in the law or before this court that should lead a sentencing judge to believe that this man deserves anything but the maximum sentence allowed by law.”

Haro’s conviction follows a disturbing history of abuse. In 2023, he admitted to child abuse that severely injured his then 10-week-old daughter. Despite a suspended six-year prison term, he was back in custody for the tragic death of Emmanuel. Prosecutors claim Emmanuel died from prolonged abuse, and the case has sparked outrage and sorrow in the community.

The sentencing will see Haro face a potential sentence of 25 years to life for the assault on Emmanuel, but the judge is not required to follow the typical sentencing guidelines. Judge Gary Polk has the discretion to impose a sentence based on the cumulative impact of the crimes.

In a dramatic turn, Haro’s defense attorney, Allison Lowe, is advocating for a lighter sentence of 15 years to life, arguing that Haro’s early admission of guilt should be taken into account. Lowe insists that Haro was not working prior to his arrest and cannot afford fines, painting a picture of a man trapped by his circumstances.

Meanwhile, the case has led to a growing makeshift memorial outside the Haro family home in Cabazon, California, where residents have gathered to mourn Emmanuel’s tragic fate. Community members have been actively engaging in ground searches for any additional information about the missing infant, further highlighting the emotional toll of this heartbreaking case.

The situation remains fluid as Haro’s wife, Rebecca Haro, is also scheduled to appear in court on the same day. She faces similar charges but has pleaded not guilty. Her attorney plans to challenge a judge’s order related to a controversial police operation aimed at eliciting confessions from suspects.

This case has opened up discussions about child protection laws and the responsibilities of parents. As the community grapples with the implications of Emmanuel’s death, many are left wondering how such tragedies can be prevented in the future.

As the trial unfolds, eyes will be on the courtroom, and the emotional atmosphere will be palpable. The sentencing of Jake Haro could set a precedent for future cases involving child abuse and murder, emphasizing the urgent need for justice in the face of such crimes.

Stay tuned for more updates as this critical case develops.