Amber Lynn Raymond, 31, has been charged with felony child endangerment, as well as gross misdemeanor counts of malicious punishment of a child and child neglect. The charges stem from an alleged assault involving a 10-year-old girl at the Maplewood home Raymond shared with her boyfriend, Basil Neil Woods, 25.
Video Report Prompts Police Investigation
The case came to light on Feb. 1 when Maplewood police received a report about a video that allegedly showed Woods assaulting the child. According to a criminal complaint obtained by PEOPLE, officers later secured a copy of the video as part of their investigation into the incident.
Allegations Detailed in Criminal Complaint
Investigators allege that Woods entered a bedroom where the child was sleeping and repeatedly struck her while yelling at her. The complaint states that the child cried out during the incident and attempted to retreat, but Woods allegedly continued the assault before leaving the room.
Search Warrant Reveals Unsanitary Living Conditions
Police executed a search warrant at the residence on Feb. 4. According to the complaint, the home was in severe disrepair and contained animal waste, urine stains, decaying food, and strong odors throughout. Authorities reported finding approximately 15 cats, a small dog, and a turtle inside the home. A lock was also observed on the refrigerator door.
Statements to Investigators
According to the complaint, Raymond acknowledged she was present during the alleged assault and was aware of what occurred. Investigators say she admitted asking Woods to help discipline the child and acknowledged assisting in planning the incident. She allegedly told authorities the situation was not intended to cause serious harm.
Court Dates Scheduled
Woods was arrested on Feb. 3 and charged with gross misdemeanor malicious punishment of a child. Raymond is scheduled to appear in court on Feb. 26, while Woods has a hearing set for March 4. Neither defendant had entered a plea at the time of reporting, and their attorneys could not be reached for comment.
