The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
Authorities in Central Texas have arrested five adults accused of keeping a woman imprisoned and severely abusing her for several months in a South Austin home.
Officers discovered the woman on October 30, after someone called and said they heard screaming. When police arrived at the residence, they reportedly found the woman half-naked, handcuffed, and suffering from extensive injuries. Officers found that she had missing skin from her hands and feet, and additional injuries that appeared to have resulted from repeated beatings. Investigators alleged that the woman had been held against her will for an extended period. Emergency personnel had to cut through metal restraints to free her before taking her to a hospital for treatment. While there, it was reported that bruises and scars that medical staff said were consistent with repeated BB gun injuries and prolonged physical abuse were found.
According to the police affidavit, the woman was initially at the home because one of her friends lived there. She reportedly said that her relationship with the others in the residence soured, and at some point, they started restraining her and forcing her to stay. The suspects allegedly told the police that she lived there voluntarily, and that her confinement was to prevent her from stealing from them or displaying inappropriate behavior outside the home. Some of the housemates claimed she had mental health issues, while others suggested she initially agreed to be restrained.
According to reports, the authorities also believed the woman was forced to sleep outdoors and given only one meal a day. One of the male residents reportedly admitted he bought a BB gun to shoot her as punishment, sometimes doing so in front of children. Three youngsters were found at the property and Child Protective Services removed them from the home.
All five suspects were taken into custody on suspicion of aggravated kidnapping, aggravated assault, injury to a disabled person, and unlawful restraint.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a criminal offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.