Erik Adrian Blanco sentenced to 39 years for 2nd degree felony murder following death of 14-month-old child

Blanco received 468-month sentence following jury conviction and finding of aggravating factors

May 7, 2026 (SAINT PAUL) — Today, a Morrison County court sentenced Erik Adrian Blanco to 39 years in prison for the killing of a 14-month-old child.  A jury found Blanco guilty of 2nd degree felony murder and 1st degree manslaughter following a March 2026 trial.

On July 6, 2023, officers responded to a residence in Little Falls where a toddler in Blanco’s care was unresponsive and not breathing.  The child, who was 14 months of age, had bruising on her face and behind her ears, as well as abrasions on her neck.  The child was transported to the hospital, however, life-saving measures were unsuccessful.  An autopsy revealed that the toddler had suffered blunt force trauma, asphyxial injuries, numerous hemorrhages, and a skull fracture, which caused her death.  At trial, the jury found beyond a reasonable doubt that Blanco abused his position of authority over the victim and that the child was particularly vulnerable because of her young age, which rendered her unable to seek help or defend herself.

Attorney General Ellison’s office prosecuted Blanco upon a referral from Morrison County Attorney Brian Middendorf under Minnesota Statutes section 8.01, which provides, “Upon request of the county attorney, the attorney general shall appear in court in such criminal cases as the attorney general deems proper.” The authority vested in the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office is primarily civil.  Aside from referrals submitted under section 8.01 and Medicaid fraud, the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office does not have prosecuting authority over most criminal acts. That authority generally rests with city and county attorneys.

"The murder of a 14-month-old child is one of the most appalling and tragic cases my office has prosecuted," said Attorney General Ellison. "I am keeping the victim’s family in my prayers, and I hope they have the support of their loved ones and communities in this difficult time. Justice cannot undo the grievous wrong done here, but it can help protect others from similar tragedies. I am grateful to everyone who helped ensure Erik Blanco faced justice for his crimes, and I will continue to do everything I can to uphold the rule of law and hold those who harm their fellow Minnesotans accountable. "

The Little Falls Police Department, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the Morrison County Sheriff’s Office, and the Minnesota State Patrol investigated this crime.