Sisters arrested after 12-year-old girl was allegedly restrained, choked, and sexually abused

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Texas (TCN) -- Two sisters were arrested in connection with the alleged ongoing physical and sexual abuse of a 12-year-old child, who sustained injuries and suffered from malnutrition.

According to the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office, on Sept. 28, deputies responded to a call involving a 12-year-old victim who reported abuse. The child was transported to a hospital.

Upon further investigation, detectives identified the two suspects as 38-year-old Brenda Garcia and 37-year-old Tania Garcia. According to KTRK-TV, the alleged abuse occurred at Brenda Garcia's home. She is also accused of taking nude photos of the victim.

Allegedly, the 12-year-old was hit with belts, cords, and sticks, and she was restrained, cut with scissors, and choked.

Court documents reviewed by KTRK allege that the abuse had occurred since March. The child reportedly claimed Brenda Garcia had choked her until she couldn't breathe and placed a belt around her neck.

According to KTRK, the victim's biological mother resides in another country but was staying with an uncle in Houston. The victim alleged that her uncle had sexually assaulted her. The child purportedly asked Brenda Garcia for help, and she took the child in to live at her house with her sister, Tania Garcia.

The victim allegedly escaped from restraints on Sept. 30. Detectives arrested the suspects on Oct. 3, and they face multiple charges, including felony injury to a child, unlawful restraint, and invasive visual recording.

Authorities noted that the child is safe and receiving medical treatment and support services.

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