Maricopa County prosecutors announced Wednesday that they intend to pursue the death penalty against two men charged in the 2023 killing of Mercedes Vega, an exotic dancer whose death shocked the Phoenix community.
The defendants – Sencere Hayes, 23, and Cudjoe Young, 29 the two men are charged with first-degree murder, along with several additional felony counts, in connection with the death of Mercedes Vega.
“I believe the jury should consider the death penalty as a possible sentence for both defendants,” said Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell. “Our office remains committed to securing justice for Mercedes Vega and supporting her loved ones throughout this process.”
Investigators say Vega was targeted after the suspects allegedly believed she was carrying a significant amount of cash. Court documents detail a brutal sequence of events: Vega was held against her will, beaten, tortured, shot, and later set on fire. Authorities say the men continued to exploit her financially after her death, using her credit cards and forging checks.
Vega was last seen on April 16, 2023. Her body was found three days later in a remote desert area on the outskirts of Phoenix. The discovery prompted a wide-ranging investigation led by the Phoenix Police Department, eventually culminating in the arrests of Hayes and Young.
Officials say the decision to seek the death penalty followed a detailed review of evidence, including financial records, forensic findings, and witness interviews. “The extreme nature of the crime and the exploitation that continued afterwards warranted the most serious consideration under state law,” prosecutors said in a statement.
Both defendants remain in county custody as the case progresses through Maricopa County Superior Court. A trial date has yet to be scheduled.
The killing of Vega has drawn significant public attention, not only for its brutality but also for the ongoing concerns around violence targeting women working in nightlife and entertainment settings. Advocacy groups are urging renewed focus on safety resources and community support for vulnerable workers.
As the case moves forward, prosecutors are expected to lay out a detailed timeline of the alleged crimes and financial activities that followed Vega’s death. Defense attorneys for Hayes and Young have not yet publicly commented on the state’s notice of intent to seek the death penalty.
