Lisa Dykes Found Guilty in Marisela Botello Murder Trial, Sentenced to Life in Prison

After a swift verdict, Lisa Dykes is sentenced to life in prison for the murder of Marisela Botello.

A Dallas jury delivered a guilty verdict in the trial of Lisa Dykes, concluding a case that lasted seven days, finding her responsible for the murder of 23-year-old Marisela Botello and tampering with evidence. The jury’s decision arrived merely after 90 minutes of deliberation, leaving Dykes visibly emotionless as the verdict was read by Judge Nancy Mulder.

Botello, visiting Dallas from Seattle in 2020, vanished following a night in Deep Ellum. Prosecutors alleged Dykes, in a fit of jealousy upon finding Botello with her boyfriend, rapper Charles Beltran, took Botello’s life and disposed of her remains, supported by Dykes’ wife, Nina Marano, within their complex three-way relationship.

During the sentencing phase, Botello’s brother spoke emotionally about the family’s loss, highlighting the void left by her absence and the resilience of their parents.

The trial unfolded complex relationships, with Beltran testifying to his involvement in a three-way relationship while Dykes denied any relationship with him. Prosecutors presented messages between Dykes and Beltran, painting a narrative of manipulation and financial motives. Defense raised concerns about the investigation, claiming the physical evidence contradicted the prosecution’s storyline.