CASTLE ROCK, Colo.—Prosecutors said Tuesday they will seek the death penalty against a man charged with wrapping a nylon strap around his girlfriend’s neck and dragging her to death behind a car.
Jose Luis Rubi-Nava is charged with first-degree murder and second-degree kidnapping in the death of 49-year-old Luz Maria Franco Fierros.
Rubi-Nava, a Mexican citizen, has pleaded not guilty. His attorney has said he is mentally retarded.
Franco Fierros’ mangled body was found in September 2006 in a quiet subdivision near Castle Rock, 20 miles south of Denver. An autopsy report said she died from strangulation and massive head wounds.
Franco Fierros was also a Mexican citizen.
Investigators have said Rubi-Nava told them he had dragged her behind his car after a violent argument in which he accused her of seeing other men.
Douglas County District Attorney Carol Chamber said in a written statement the decision to seek the death penalty was made after “very careful consideration.” She didn’t address the defense contention that Rubi-Nava is mentally retarded.
