Police Failures Led to Mother's Brutal Stabbing Death

Yolanda Saldana Feliz was fatally stabbed 40 times by her daughter's ex-partner, Miguel Angel Florentino, following a series of alleged Metropolitan police failures. Lauris Saldana, who survived the savage attack, had repeatedly begged the police for assistance, providing evidence of Florentino's escalating stalking and threats.

A senior coroner for east London issued a report to the home secretary, mayor of London, and Met commissioner, detailing significant police inadequacies. The report concluded that Yolanda's death in October 2022 was preventable had Lauris's pleas for help been taken seriously.

Florentino's behavior included jealousy, mental health issues, and prior legal troubles. After his release from police custody for harassment, his stalking intensified, culminating in the fatal attack. Florentino died by suicide later the same day his crime was committed.

Lauris Saldana expressed deep pain over the police's lack of response and justification, noting that her life changed entirely due to their neglect. The Metropolitan police have since acknowledged mistakes and stated improvements in investigating stalking and domestic abuse offenses.