ARTESIA — The Artesia Police Department has made an arrest in the stabbing of a 32-year-old Artesia woman Monday evening.
Priscilla Mesquita, 21, of Lake Arthur, was arrested at 4:44 p.m. Wednesday, March 5, by APD officers.
She has been charged with one count of aggravated battery, a third-degree felony. … For the rest of the story, subscribe in print and on the web.
At 4:37 p.m. Monday, March 4, APD officers were dispatched to 2700 W. Grand Ave. in reference to a stabbing.
Upon arrival, they met with several people in the area, including the female victim, who had two stab wounds in her chest.
The victim was transported by ambulance to Artesia General Hospital and later to another hospital in Lubbock, Texas, for further treatment.
She remains hospitalized in stable condition, and her release is expected later in the week.
APD detectives processed the scene for evidence and gathered items such as clothing and blood samples.
They also interviewed people that were in the area at the time of the incident and were able to determine that a brief verbal argument allegedly ensued between the victim and Mesquita that ended in a violent, sudden attack with a small knife.
Mesquita will be transported to the Eddy County Detention Center in lieu of posting a $75,000 cash-only bond.
She has not been arraigned, and a trial date has not been set. If convicted, she faces a maximum sentence of three years in prison and $5,000 in fines.
