Woman arrested after children allegedly beaten and threatened with firearms
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Woman arrested after children allegedly beaten and threatened with firearms

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1 min read
March 23, 2026
Woman accused of beating children with belt and using guns to threaten them in Harrisburg

HARRISBURG, Pa. — A Harrisburg woman is facing multiple charges after investigators uncovered allegations of children being beaten and threatened with firearms inside a home.

Maria Roche, 31, was arrested and charged with aggravated assault, endangering the welfare of a child and simple assault following an investigation by local police.

Authorities said the case involves Roche and her boyfriend, William Witherspoon, with disturbing claims that children in the home were subjected to repeated abuse.

Police allege the children were beaten with a belt, and that firearms inside the house were used to threaten and even strike them.

Woman arrested after children allegedly beaten and threatened with firearms
Photo: woman arrested after children allegedly beaten and threatened with firearms

Roche was taken into custody on March 20.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Harrisburg Police at 717-558-6900 or submit tips through the CRIMEWATCH website.

Key Points
  • Woman accused of beating children with belt in Harrisburg home
  • Police say firearms were used to threaten and strike victims
  • Suspect charged with aggravated assault and child endangerment
Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News

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