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.
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