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Harrisburg man charged after kids beaten with belt and threatened with guns

by
March 23, 2026
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Man accused of beating children with belt and threatening them with guns in Harrisburg

HARRISBURG, Pa. — A Harrisburg man is accused of abusing children inside a home, including beating them with a belt and threatening them with firearms, according to police.

William Witherspoon, 41, was arrested and charged with endangering the welfare of a child following an investigation into the alleged abuse.

Authorities said the case also involves his girlfriend, Maria Roche, as investigators uncovered claims that children in the home were subjected to repeated physical abuse.

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

Harrisburg man charged after kids beaten with belt and threatened with guns
Photo: harrisburg man charged after kids beaten with belt and threatened with guns

Witherspoon was taken into custody on March 23.

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

Key Points

  • Man accused of beating children with belt inside Harrisburg home
  • Police say firearms were used to threaten and strike victims
  • Suspect arrested and charged with child endangerment
Local News Report

Local News Report

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