Senate vote could lead to rapist's removal from San Antonio cemetery

A convicted rapist and suspected serial killer may be removed from a San Antonio cemetery after the U.S. Senate passed a bill calling for his disinterrment from a burial ground that serves as a final resting place for veterans and their families.

U.S. Sen. John Cornyn introduced the bill calling for the disinterrment of Fernando V. Cota, a convicted rapist who authorities suspect of killing at least six women. Cota served in the U.S. Army before his conviction. He died in 1984.

Cornyn initiated the bill after the son of one of Cota’s alleged victims created a petition to remove Cota from Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, where over 180,000 veterans are buried. U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz is co-sponsoring the bill.

“Fernando Cota faced multiple sexual assault and rape allegations and was the prime murder suspect for half a dozen women after his transition to civilian life,” Cornyn said in a statement. “While current law prohibits such a disreputable person from receiving the high honor of being buried amongst those who valiantly served our nation, my legislation would correct this oversight and ensure Cota’s remains are no longer beside those who lived lives worthy of memorial at Fort Sam Houston.”

The bill remains with the U.S. House of Representatives.

https://www.expressnews.com/news/texas/article/fernando-cota-fort-sam-houston-national-cemetery-20820446.php