Man pleads guilty in beating death of 3-year-old stepson

WATERLOO, N.Y. (AP) - A New York man has pleaded guilty in the beating death of his 3-year-old stepson.

The Democrat & Chronicle says Donald Bovio of Seneca Falls pleaded guilty to second-degree murder this week in the May 2018 death of Peter Stephanides-Vacchino.

Peter's mother, Alison Bovio, pleaded guilty to manslaughter in October. Authorities said she also was abused.

Prosecutors say Donald Bovio beat the little boy with a belt, causing his head to strike the floor. He admitted shoving Peter and striking his head on two separate occasions.

Former District Attorney Barry Porsch said last year that the emotionally wrenching case led to "a lot of tears" among investigators.