Washoe County District Attorney Chris Hicks announced his office will be seeking the death penalty against the father of Izabella Loving.
Nicholas Loving is accused of killing his five-year-old daughter, Izabella, last year.
The District Attorney said several factors influenced their decision to try for the death penalty against Nicholas Loving.
They say his being previously convicted for a crime of child abuse in 2014 adds to his eligibility for the death penalty.
Chris Hicks, the Washoe County District Attorney, said, "Evidence developed during this investigation and the allegations outlined in the Criminal Information, my office has concluded that this case meets the legal standard for filing a notice of intent to seek the death penalty against Nicholas Loving."
As of now, Loving remains in custody with no bail bond, and Izabella's mother, Andrea Loving, is also in custody and being charged with murder in connection with Izabella’s death, with bail set at $2 million.
However, the D.A. says she is not eligible for the death penalty.
Officials believe Izabella endured repeated abuse, neglect, isolation, and withholding of medical care for approximately two and a half years.
Hicks also said, "Cruel pain and suffering to Izzy for any sadistic purpose, thereby inflicting mortal injuries upon her from which she died."
District Attorney’s office said an arraignment is set for next week, during which a trial date could be set, but he said he intends to try Loving within a year from now. Officials also state that this case remains a top priority for both the district's office and the Washoe County Sheriff's Office.
Sheriff Darin Balaam with Washoe County told us, "From the beginning, the Washoe County Sheriff's Office has been committed to ensuring Izzy receives the justice she deserves and that the individuals responsible for this heinous crime are held accountable."
Hicks says he plans to prosecute the case personally.
