KRQE News 13 · Oct 15, 2026

Trial canceled for New Mexico couple accused of sexually and physically abusing children

DEMING, N.M. (KRQE) – The trial for a New Mexico couple accused of physically and sexually abusing their kids and making them live in underground tunnels has been canceled. According to a criminal complaint, Melvin and Valerie Cordell made their children live outside their Deming property in manmade tunnels from 2014 to 2024.