The mother and stepfather of 14-year-old Paloma Nicole, who died after undergoing multiple cosmetic surgeries in central Mexico, have been arrested and charged.

Nicole, who would have soon celebrated her birthday, is reported to have undergone a breast augmentation and fat removal procedure on September 12. Just a week later, she was hospitalized in critical condition, and days after that, she tragically passed away.

Her biological father later discovered the truth about her death. Initially told by Nicole’s mother that COVID-19 was to blame, he inspected his daughter’s body with the help of a relative and found clear signs of surgical intervention.

Local outlets including Victoria de Durango and Latinus report that Nicole’s mother, identified as Paloma Jazmín “N”, and her partner, Víctor Manuel “N”, have now been detained by police. Víctor Manuel, who is not a licensed surgeon, is accused of carrying out the procedures himself, according to new outlet Periodico Victoria.

Sonia Yadira de la Garza, the state’s Attorney General, confirmed the pair face multiple charges, including neglect of their duties as guardians, use of false documents, and impersonation.

Authorities also say Nicole’s mother posed as a nurse during the surgery, despite having no medical training.

Investigators added that a falsified COVID-19 test was used as part of the paperwork for the procedure.

“We already had conclusive evidence that the document was altered or falsified based on a previous one,” the Attorney General said.

The case has sparked widespread outrage in Durango. On Saturday (September 27), hundreds of people took to the streets to demand justice for Nicole.

Her father led the march, telling reporters (via Latinus): “It’s a pain that destroys you, it destroys all hope, all dreams. I had so many plans for my daughter, and suddenly, everything fell apart.”

Nicole’s half-brother, Christopher Olivas, has since posted online to say that the family has received threats via WhatsApp following the arrests. He described Nicole as someone who loved beauty, makeup, and taking care of her curls, and said she struggled with insecurities like many young people her age.

In a disturbing detail, reports have also surfaced that Víctor Manuel’s own mother died after undergoing a similar cosmetic operation at the same clinic.

Nicole’s case has become a rallying point in Mexico, raising serious questions about unlicensed cosmetic procedures, accountability, and the protection of minors.