A woman from Bedford County is confronting charges related to child abuse, as state police allege she directed a group of children to strike a young girl with a belt.
Authorities report that a 62-year-old woman from Hopewell Borough, Penny Garlock, is facing allegations of repeatedly mistreating a 9-year-old victim and coercing others into participating in the purported abuse.
On October 19th, authorities were alerted following the report of a missing individual, as detailed in the affidavit.
Authorities report that the individual was discovered at Garlock’s location, where she allegedly informed officers that she had been struck with a belt.
According to investigators, the victim reported that she was “hiding” after being restrained and assaulted by a group of minors, following Garlock’s orders.
Officials report that the individual was subsequently taken to UPMC Bedford for the treatment of various injuries, which included multiple welts and bruises.
Authorities reported that the individual sustained a noticeable head injury amid the claimed mistreatment.
Following a deeper inquiry, authorities report that the other minors confessed to being compelled to assault the victim using a belt, which Garlock purportedly provided to them.
Authorities indicate that the children allegedly saw Garlock hit the victim with a spatula and a metal oven rack.
According to police, the victim was said to have been “held down” on a bed during the alleged incident, with witnesses claiming that Garlock was involved in restraining her.
Online court records reveal that Garlock faced arraignment earlier this week on multiple charges, which include felonies related to child endangerment and aggravated assault.