NELSON COUNTY, Ky. (LEX 18) — James Saldana appeared in court on Thursday for a scheduled sentencing, but due to his immigration status, he was not sentenced.
If convicted, Saldana could be deported, so he filed a motion to withdraw his plea.
He'll return to court for a hearing on the matter in March, learning whether he'll go to trial or not.
Watching the exchange play out, Saldana’s oldest daughter, Veronica, held it together.
“Terrifying. I'm still shaking a little. I'm sick to my stomach, but I didn't want to appear weak,” said Veronica.
In the spring of 2023, authorities arrested James Saldana of New Haven. Investigators described his home as full of feces and moldy laundry.
A grand jury later indicted him on four counts of first-degree criminal abuse and assault.
In January, Veronica met with LEX 18 and detailed a nightmarish childhood at the hands of her abusive father.
At the possibility of a trial, Veronica is hopeful.
“In one way it’s good because I don't want him out on parole and I don't want him free anywhere because he is a dangerous person,” said Veronica. “We know that the truth is on our side, and they're trying to say there's not proof of some of his abuse, but I think there's enough for any jury to convict him.”
As the case plays out, Veronica said her siblings are finally getting a taste of normalcy as they bond with their foster family and excel at school.
“Them having these opportunities that I never had, having friends, is something that all my siblings have always wanted,” said Veronica.
A hearing on Saldana’s motion to set aside his plea is set for March 7.
