BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — A man accused of killing a Bakersfield mother in what police are a calling a brutal case of domestic violence made his first appearance in court Wednesday.

The courtroom was packed with people who were there to see Victor Farias answer to charges of first-degree murder, two counts of child cruelty and violating a court order to prevent domestic violence.

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Farias is accused of fatally stabbing Yolanda Rojo, the mother of two young girls. A criminal protective order was placed on Rojo’s children, meaning Farias cannot contact them in any way.

“I would do anything in the world to have her back. I guess that’s how much love I have. I would trade our spots if I could. I would do anything,” said Anabel Lupercio, Rojo’s sister.

Bakersfield police said officers were called to the Shadow Ridge Apartments in east Bakersfield late at night March 25, where they found Rojo.

“I think she was probably scared. She probably didn’t know it was gonna happen,” said Lupercio.

Farias was arrested hours later in Tehachapi. He is the father of Rojo’s two daughters, but their relationship is unknown. Lupercio said Rojo’s daughters are safe and with family.

“She did everything for those girls, she loved being a mom,” Lupercio said. “She was the best mom. She was like a mom to all of us.”

Rojo, a Bakersfield native, graduated from East High School and attended Bakersfield College for a few years. She worked as a receptionist at the Shadow Ridge Apartments.

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“She was honestly the glue that held us all together. She was the one that made all the planning to our birthday dinners, the gatherings, Christmas, Thanksgiving. She was truly the glue to our family,” said Lupercio.

A GoFundMe has been set up by Rojo’s family as a trust fund for Rojo’s daughters she left behind. If you would like to support, click here.

Farias is due back in court April 6.

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