BRONX, NY (March 26, 2026) — Joseph Martinez, known as Jupiter Joe, was sentenced to 25 years to life for the 1999 murder of 13-year-old Minerliz Soriano, in a landmark case as the first in New York City solved using familial DNA.
Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark announced the sentence, highlighting the relentless pursuit of justice by Bronx detectives and the use of advanced DNA technology. “The defendant sexually abused Minerliz and killed her. He left her body in a dumpster in Co-op City, where she was found on February 28, 1999,” Clark said.
Martinez, 54, of New Rochelle, was convicted by a jury of two counts of second-degree murder on November 14, 2025. The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys John Miras and Che Van Eer under the supervision of the Bronx DA’s Homicide Bureau.
Minerliz was last seen alive on February 24, 1999, and her body was discovered days later, wrapped in a trash bag. Martinez was arrested on November 29, 2021, after familial DNA linked him to the crime.
District Attorney Clark expressed hope that the sentence brings solace to Minerliz’s family and acknowledged the contributions of the NYPD detectives and Bronx District Attorney’s Office staff.
This article was prepared with the assistance of AI tools under the direction and editing of Robert Cox.
Have information about this story? Email robertcox@talkofthesound (preferred) or contact via WhatsApp: +353 089 972 0669.
RELATED
Jupiter Joe Guilty: DNA Straw Trap at New Rochelle Diner Ends 26-Year Hunt for Bronx Girl’s Killer