A Missouri woman was arrested on Sunday for abusing children in her care.
A foster parent named Brenda Deutsch, aged 70, has been accused by Lincoln County prosecutors of physically abusing children in her care. Allegations include using a paddle, wooden trim from walls, and a shoe to discipline the children. Additionally, Deutsch is accused of neglecting a child by withholding food and taking their clothing, as reported by KTVI.
Following the disappearance of a child who was later found in Texas, prosecutors decided to press criminal charges against Deutsch. The child, who had been under Deutsch’s care for four years, was eventually adopted by her. This case has raised serious concerns about the safety and well-being of children in the foster care system.
KTVI reported that the incident came to light when an anonymous call was placed to social services in November 2024. Subsequently, in February, school officials discovered that the girl was missing school. Further investigation revealed that the child was in Texas with a friend of Deutsch. Shockingly, another witness stated that they were approached to take the child in exchange for a monkey, shedding light on the disturbing nature of the situation.
Deutsch’s friend reportedly said that Deutsch did not want her adopted daughter back. Deutsch contended that she gave the girl a plane ticket to return, but her friend did not have a way to the airport.
Deutsch had two children in her care at the time of her arrest. Prosecutors said about 250 calls were placed to a child abuse hotline about Deutsch’s home over 15 years. However, this is the first time Deutsch has faced criminal charges.
Deutsch remains jailed on a $250,000 cash bond.
[Feature Photo: Lincoln County police]