Houston, TX – A Texas woman, aged 55, has been taken into custody following accusations that she bound a 7-year-old girl in her care with zip ties, taped her mouth shut, and confined her in a dog cage next to their Christmas tree for extended periods. Last weekend, Rose Marie Anderson was arrested and faces felony charges for unlawful restraint and child injury, according to records obtained.
Court documents revealed that the purported incident occurred at Anderson’s residence located in the 3600 block of Dixie Drive in Houston around December 13. The identity and age of the victim remain undisclosed, yet records indicate a familial connection between the two.
The legal document alleges that Anderson “unlawfully, intentionally, and knowingly” confined the child without her consent “by force” in a manner that would “substantially interfere” with her freedom. Prosecutors claim that Anderson intentionally inflicted “bodily injury” on the child by “striking [the victim] with her foot.”
Prosecutors presented further information regarding Anderson’s purported offense involving the 7-year-old in a motion for adequate bail. The motion states that Anderson was the only caregiver for the child during the incident.
“Defendant locked Victim in a dog cage next to a Christmas tree for hours on end, kicking her while she was locked in the cage while the Victim was zip-tied and her mouth was duct taped shut,” the motion states. “Victim was left without access to food and water, and Victim urinated on herself as she had no access to a bathroom and was left alone for hours on end.”
Officials indicated that Anderson’s reason for carrying out this act was to retaliate against the victim due to her conduct in an educational setting.
The Texas Department of Family Services informed Houston ABC affiliate KTRK that the victim has been taken out of the home and is now safe.
“CPS is investigating these abuse allegations alongside law enforcement,” Spokesperson Melissa Lanford said. “The child is now safe in foster care, where she is receiving the care she needs.”
Anderson underwent processing at the Harris County Jail. Records indicate that she was released on Monday after securing a $5,000 bond.
Anderson’s release comes with specific conditions, mandating her presence at all court dates and forbidding any actions that might result in her arrest, including threats, harassment, or assault against the 7-year-old alleged victim.
Anderson’s next court appearance is set for January 6, 2025.