A Connecticut man from New Haven pleaded guilty to the disappearance and killing of his longtime girlfriend in 2020, with a total effective sentence of 25 years in prison under a plea agreement. Jonnathan Jara-Aucapina, 30, entered the guilty plea before Judge Gerald L. Harmon to a charge of murder, as reported by the New Haven Judicial District State’s Attorney John P. Doyle, Jr. The sentencing is set for April 2 in New Haven Superior Court.
The investigation began on July 3, 2020, after Jara-Aucapina reported Lizzbeth Aleman-Popoca missing. It was later discovered that Jara-Aucapina had killed Aleman-Popoca and buried her in a shallow grave behind a restaurant in Branford, where he was a part-time employee. Aleman-Popoca’s body was found near a parking lot, and Jara-Aucapina was seen purchasing a hoe and shovel at a store before driving to the restaurant in the victim’s vehicle, according to court records.
Prior to filing the missing person report, Jara-Aucapina had crafted a story that Aleman-Popoca had run off, which he used to deceive family and law enforcement. The East Haven Police Department, Connecticut State Police, and FBI played vital roles in the investigative efforts. Jara-Aucapina was eventually arrested at a New Haven diner on December 27, 2020.
The guilty plea comes as a resolution to the tragic case, offering some closure to the friends and family of Aleman-Popoca. The senseless crime and its aftermath have left an unimaginable loss in the community. The case underscores the importance of thorough investigative efforts and the pursuit of justice for victims and their families.