Editor’s note: Some readers might find the details in this story disturbing.

A teen accused in the death of his 2-year-old cousin in Santa Clara County is now facing additional charges, prosecutors announced Monday.

Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen said the suspect, who was 17 at the time of the alleged killing and has since turned 18, now faces nine felony charges, including murder, sexual assault and felony assault. Prosecutors allege the toddler was strangled with a hair tie.

The child, identified as Jaxon Juarez, was found unresponsive April 5 and died April 9.

Rosen also said his office has filed a motion to transfer the case to adult court, a process that could take two to three months if approved by a judge.

According to a report by the Mercury News, Jaxon had recently been placed in foster care with his 40-year-old aunt, who is also the mother of the suspect.

Rosen declined to confirm reports that the woman had a prior conviction for felony child endangerment in 2015. He said his office is investigating whether other individuals could face charges in connection with the child’s death.

“We are looking at everyone who may bear responsibility,” Rosen said.

The district attorney also said investigators are reviewing whether any actions by Santa Clara County’s Department of Family and Children’s Services could constitute criminal conduct.

In a statement, county spokesperson Peter Gallotta said the death is under active investigation and that officials are conducting a thorough review.

“The death of Jaxon Juarez is deeply tragic and under active investigation by the county,” Gallotta said. “We are conducting a thorough review of policies, protocols and staff actions, including every interaction involving Jaxon during his time in foster care.”

Gallotta said the county has also requested an independent investigation by the California Department of Social Services.

The Department of Family and Children’s Services is already under state oversight following two previous child deaths: a 3-month-old who died of a fentanyl overdose in 2023 and a 7-year-old allegedly stabbed by an uncle in 2024.

County officials said they are conducting a “comprehensive investigation” into Jaxon’s death, while the state Department of Social Services is also carrying out an independent review.