Two Arrested, Charged with Murder in Death of Newton County Woman

Newton County investigators have arrested two suspects, Jose Sermeno, 31, and Katerin Abrego, 27, both of Covington, in connection with the murder of Irma Valdez, 46, of Covington. The arrests were made on June 18, following the discovery of Valdez’s body in a wooded area.

Valdez was initially reported missing from Conyers on June 16, and then from Newton County on June 17. Investigators launched an immediate search, which led them to a wooded area off Stephenson Road in Covington, where Valdez’s body was discovered on June 18.

Jose Sermeno faces charges of malice murder, two counts of second-degree cruelty to children, false statements, and concealing the death of another. Katerin Abrego is charged with malice murder, false statements, concealing the death of another, tampering with evidence, and willful obstruction of law enforcement officers.

The preliminary investigation indicates that Valdez knew both suspects. Investigators are actively working to determine a possible motive for the crime.

Sheriff Ezell Brown and the Newton County Sheriff’s Office continue to extend their condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Irma Valdez.