Geneva woman accused of dismembering lover with chainsaw claims self-defense, 4-year-old child may have witnessed crime, prosecutors say

DOTHAN, Ala (WDHN) — A Geneva County woman whom investigators claim shot and “completely” dismembered her partner with a chainsaw in the same house as their 4-year-old child is asking for bond on a claim that she was defending herself.

Joselina Elizabeth Lopez was arrested on Thursday, August 29, and charged with one count of intentional murder in the death of 41-year-old Benito Morales Guzman.

His body was found dismembered by Geneva County Sheriff’s Deputies in a car behind his house around Grady Garner Road and New Hinson Road in the Fadette community on Tuesday, August 27. Officers were called to the scene after receiving a missing person’s report for Guzman.

During a bond hearing Tuesday afternoon, Investigator Philip Shuler with the State Bureau of Investigation took the stand, testifying that when officers arrived at the scene, they noticed a “strong odor” coming from the car and found a chainsaw and Guzman’s body in around 10-15 pieces, stuffed in garbage bags and placed in the backseat and trunk.

Prosecutors and investigators believe Lopez’s and Guzman’s 4-year-old child, who has autism and birth defects, may have been in the home at the time of the murder and dismemberment.

According to the investigator, after finding the body, officers began searching the home and discovered a pistol, a hatchet, two knives, two other chainsaws, and various receipts showing she purchased tools.

Investigator Shuler went on to say chainsaw marks were found on the floor of the home, and it is believed Guzman was shot around five times before being dismembered.

Lopez, the 4-year-old child, and several others were reportedly at the home at the time of the officer’s arrival and search.

During the hearing, Lopez claimed self-defense, with her attorneys saying Guzman owed money to a third party for drugs, and Lopez’s family was being threatened to try and get money from him.

However, prosecutors disputed this claim, saying there was no evidence that she defended herself from Guzman, and while she had some bruises, there was no way to tell if they were caused by the deceased.

Prosecutors are asking Lopez to be held without bond due to the nature of the crime and her allegedly knowing people in Mexico.

Lopez’s defense told Judge Stephen Smith that she has no ties to Mexico, has never stepped foot outside of the country, and is willing to wear an ankle monitor should she be released on bond.

Judge Smith is expected to rule on the request in the next two days.

Stay with WDHN for updates.

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