Netflix Doc Revisits 2009 Mexico Case of Woman Who Faked Pregnancy, Stole Newborn

A new Netflix documentary, 'Un hijo propio,' directed by Maite Alberdi, delves into a shocking 2009 case from Mexico where a woman meticulously faked a pregnancy for months before stealing a newborn baby. The film reconstructs the events through interviews with the protagonist, who was in prison, and others involved.

The case centered on Eleonor Alejandra Marín Mendoza, an administrative employee at the General Hospital of Mexico. After experiencing multiple pregnancy losses, and reportedly facing significant family and social pressure to have a child, Marín chose to conceal her latest loss. She continued to act as if she were pregnant, even gaining weight to avoid suspicion, and set a false due date of June 17.

On the fabricated due date, Marín entered the hospital where she worked and, shortly before 7 p.m., took a newborn baby from the obstetrics and gynecology department. She reportedly concealed the infant in a paper bag and left the premises. Security cameras played a vital role in tracking her movements, and investigators identified her as a hospital worker.

The investigation led authorities to a hotel, where they found the baby safe early the next morning. Marín and her partner, Arturo Calderón Gamiño, were also located at the establishment. The baby's biological mother, Mayra, recounted meeting Marín on the day of the birth, with Marín posing as a hospital worker conducting a survey before taking the child while Mayra was briefly away.