Introduction to the Case
A Victorville, California, couple and their adult daughter who fostered children were charged Wednesday with child abuse and torture stemming from what authorities described as years of physical, emotional, and mental abuse.
Tina Marie Sheffield Key, 60, Kenneth Michael Key, 60, and daughter Kaitlynn Marresa Key, 23, were charged with six counts of torture — one count for each of the six children in their care — and one count of child abuse.
Charges and Arrests
Arraignment is scheduled for May 15. It was not immediately clear whether the three suspects have an attorney who could speak on their behalf.
Their arrests were announced Tuesday by the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department, which said the children range in age from 4 to 16. They were booked at the Central Detention Center with bail set at $1 million.
Details of the Abuse
In a complaint filed Wednesday, prosecutors said the children were subjected to years of abuse that included daily beatings and strangulation to the point of unconsciousness. Punishments included withholding food and water from the children for days, the district attorney’s office said.
Details about what led to the suspects’ arrests were not immediately available.
Reaction from the Community
One neighbor, who identified himself only as "Junior," said the neighborhood was caught by surprise by the arrest.
"Seems like a normal family," he said. "I didn’t see anything strange or heard any screaming from their house."
Anyone with information regarding the case was asked to contact authorities at 909-890-4904. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or leave information on the We-Tip website.
Conclusion
The case of the Victorville foster couple and their adult daughter charged with torture and abuse is a disturbing one, highlighting the need for increased vigilance and support for vulnerable children in foster care. It is essential for communities to come together to prevent such cases and ensure that children receive the care and protection they deserve.
FAQs
- Q: What were the charges against the Victorville couple and their daughter?
A: They were charged with six counts of torture and one count of child abuse. - Q: How old are the children who were allegedly abused?
A: The children range in age from 4 to 16. - Q: What was the bail set for the three suspects?
A: The bail was set at $1 million each. - Q: How can one report information about the case?
A: One can contact authorities at 909-890-4904 or call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) to report any information.
