'He didn't deserve that': Parents of 5-year-old Prince McCree speak out as killer receives life sentence

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A man who admitted his role in the killing of 5-year-old Prince McCree has been sentenced to life in prison.

Erik Mendoza received the sentence Friday, a ruling that prosecutors said brought a sense of justice for Prince’s family.

The case began in October 2023 when Prince McCree was reported missing after his mother kept him home from school because he was sick. The next day, the 5-year-old’s body was found duct-taped and bagged inside a dumpster near Hawley and Vliet.

Investigators said Mendoza and David Pietura strangled and beat Prince to death using a barbell, golf club, and birdbath before dumping his body.

Mendoza pleaded guilty to first-degree intentional homicide and four other felony charges.

During sentencing, defense attorneys argued Mendoza suffers from mental health issues, including schizophrenia, and asked the court to consider that. Prosecutors also replayed body camera video showing the moment an officer found Prince’s body.

Mendoza declined to comment in court.

Prince McCree’s parents delivered emotional statements, describing the lasting pain of losing their son.

His mother, Jordan Barger, said, "I just basically he gets what he deserves in there because my 5-year-old didn't deserve that. I don't feel like he should be here either if my baby can't be here my baby had a whole life ahead of him."

His father, Darron McCree, said, "I just hope that at night before he goes to sleep, he sees my baby face and hears my baby. And I believe that could be the reason why he's going psychotic."

The judge sentenced Mendoza to life in prison. He must serve at least 50 years before he is eligible for release.