Police probe detectives’ questioning of suspect in death of Calif. girl found in suitcase

Police probe handling of suspect in girl’s killing

STOCKTON, Calif. — Police in California have launched an internal inquiry into a detective’s handling of the investigation into the killing of an 8-year-old Tracy girl whose body was found stuffed in a suitcase.

In court papers filed last month, the attorney for defendant Melissa Huckaby cited a prosecutor’s memo confirming the probe into whether her rights were violated.

At issue are Huckaby’s comments to Detective Nate Cogburn on April 10 — comments used to obtain search warrant affidavits. Details weren’t disclosed in defense attorney Sam Behar’s filing.

If Huckaby’s rights are found to have been violated, Behar could ask to toss out key evidence against her.

Police declined comment, citing a judge’s gag order.

Sandra Cantu’s body was found April 6. Huckaby has pleaded not guilty to kidnapping, rape and murder.

Information from: Contra Costa Times