Woman convicted in 2020 death of 3-year-old stepdaughter sentenced to life in prison

PITTSBURGH — A woman convicted of first-degree murder in the 2020 death of her 3-year-old stepdaughter has been sentenced to life in prison.

>>> Woman convicted of 1st-degree murder in 2020 death of 3-year-old stepdaughter

Bella Seachrist died in June 2020. Police said she died from starvation and neglect.

Her stepmother, Laura Ramirez, starved, tortured and physically abused Bella, according to investigators.

>>> Loved ones hold vigil for Oakmont toddler who died after alleged abuse from family members

Investigators say the abuse occurred because Bella was conceived when her father, Jose Salazar-Ortiz, had an affair.

Ramirez will serve life in prison, plus 34 to 74 years, for her role in Bella’s death.

>>> Man convicted of murder in 2020 death of his 3-year-old daughter

Salazar-Ortiz was convicted in the murder last month and will spend at least 35 years behind bars.

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