A Pennsylvania father and his girlfriend have been charged with the torture, starvation, and abuse of the man’s 12-year-old daughter, who died weighing only 50 pounds with at least six broken bones and numerous bruises. Rendell Hoagland, 52, and Cindy Warren, 45, were arrested for the alleged mistreatment of preteen Malinda Hoagland, including chaining her to a piece of furniture over several months at their home in West Caln Township near Philadelphia. The abuse was discovered after the girl was rushed to the hospital on May 4 and died within hours, appearing emaciated and with severe injuries.
An average 12-year-old girl weighs between 68 and 136 pounds, according to CDC data, making Malinda’s weight of 50 pounds extremely concerning. She also had bruises all over her body, broken bones, and failing organs. Chester County District Attorney Christopher L. de Barrena-Sarobe stated that Malinda suffered through unimaginable torment, and authorities are committed to seeking justice for her. While the 9-year-old son of Warren appeared well-treated, Malinda was pulled from school in late November and subjected to online schooling at home, where she faced mistreatment and neglect.
Recovery of cell phone videos and messages revealed that Malinda was shackled to furniture, verbally abused, and forced to do physical exercises while still restrained. Denied meals and isolated from the outside world, Malinda’s living conditions were horrid before her death. The father claimed she was injured from falling off her bike, but authorities found the explanation to be dubious. West Caln Police Chief Curt Martinez described Malinda’s death as a horrific case of child abuse, leading to the arrest of both Hoagland and Warren on charges of attempted criminal homicide, aggravated assault, kidnapping, and other related crimes.
As the investigation continues, the pair could face additional charges, including murder. Bail was set at $1 million for both defendants as they await their legal proceedings. The heinous nature of Malinda’s abuse and death has shocked the community and law enforcement officials working on the case. The authorities are determined to ensure that justice is served for the young girl who suffered unthinkable torment at the hands of those meant to protect and care for her. With ongoing efforts to uncover the extent of the abuse and negligence, more charges may be brought against Hoagland and Warren as the case progresses.
