West Valley Man Admits Guilt in Girlfriend’s Shooting Death

A West Valley man has pleaded guilty to the 2024 shooting death of his girlfriend, marking a significant development in a case that has drawn attention due to the defendant’s mental health condition. On October 10, 2024, Frederick Jason Edwards, 48, admitted to the murder of Esperanza Chavez, 25, in the 3rd District Court of Utah. This plea follows a long history of violence and criminal behavior, with prosecutors recommending he be treated as a habitual violent offender.

Edwards was charged in January 2024 with several serious felonies, including murder and the discharge of a firearm causing serious injury. He also faced charges of obstruction of justice, possession of a weapon by a restricted person, and abuse or desecration of a dead body. As part of a plea agreement, the other charges were dismissed, allowing him to focus on the murder charge.

In a plea statement, Edwards acknowledged that he “did cause the death of Esperanza Chavez by shooting her with a firearm.” Notably, he also disclosed that he suffers from schizoaffective disorder, a condition he had while committing the crime. Because of this mental health plea, his sentencing will be deferred for up to one year to allow for court-recommended treatment.

The tragic events unfolded on January 20, 2024, when Chavez’s body was discovered near a dumpster located at 3994 S. 300 West. An autopsy revealed she had suffered two gunshot wounds to the head at close range, raising questions about the circumstances surrounding her death.

Using surveillance footage, police identified Edwards as a suspect. The video captured him arriving at the dumpster in a Chevy truck around 12:20 a.m., where he was seen attempting to dispose of Chavez’s body. According to charging documents, when he was unable to place the body into the dumpster, Edwards dragged it to the side and attempted to cover it with clothing and a bag.

In the investigation that followed, authorities executed a search warrant on Edwards’ vehicle, uncovering blood on various surfaces, including the passenger seat and glove box. A coat found in the truck was also soaked in blood, further implicating Edwards in the crime.

Edwards’ history of violence is extensive; law enforcement authorities have documented numerous incidents involving assaults, mayhem, and threats. He is currently facing additional charges related to a previous incident involving Chavez, where he allegedly assaulted her during an argument while driving.

As the case proceeds, the focus will shift to Edwards’ treatment and the implications of his mental health condition on the judicial process. The court’s decision to defer sentencing reflects a growing recognition of the need for mental health considerations in violent crime cases, aiming for rehabilitation over punishment where appropriate.

The tragic death of Esperanza Chavez and the circumstances surrounding it serve as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in cases of domestic violence and mental health issues.