A 55-year-old woman in Houston, Texas, has been arrested after allegedly restraining a 7-year-old girl in her care in a shocking and disturbing way. Authorities say Rose Marie Anderson zip-tied the young girl, duct-taped her mouth shut, and locked her in a dog cage next to a Christmas tree for hours at a time.
Anderson was taken into custody last weekend and now faces serious felony charges, including unlawful restraint and injury to a child. According to court documents, the incident happened around December 13 at Anderson’s apartment on Dixie Drive in Houston. Officials revealed that Anderson and the victim are related, but they have not shared the child’s name.
Prosecutors say Anderson restrained the child against her will, limiting her freedom and causing significant harm. The complaint also states that Anderson physically hurt the child by kicking her with her foot.
Details shared in a motion for bail paint a heartbreaking picture of what the child endured. Anderson, who was reportedly the only caregiver for the girl at the time, is accused of locking her in the cage for hours. While trapped, the child had her hands tied with zip ties, her mouth covered with duct tape, and no access to food, water, or even a bathroom. The child was left to urinate on herself and endured further trauma when Anderson allegedly kicked her while she was caged.
The alleged reason behind this horrifying act? Authorities say Anderson was trying to “punish” the girl for her behavior at school.
The Texas Department of Family Services has confirmed that the child has been removed from the home and is now safe in foster care. A spokesperson said the child is receiving proper care while the abuse allegations are being investigated alongside law enforcement.
Anderson was booked into the Harris County Jail but has since been released on a $5,000 bond. Conditions of her release include attending all her court dates and avoiding any behavior that could lead to further trouble or harm to the victim. She is also forbidden from contacting or threatening the child in any way.
Anderson’s next court appearance is scheduled for January 6, 2025. Meanwhile, investigators continue to look into the case, ensuring that the child receives justice and protection moving forward.
