Couple accused of child abuse

Published 10:46 pm Tuesday, December 16, 2014

Two Selma parents are facing child abuse charges concerning their 8-year-old boy, according to the Selma Police Department.

UNDERWOOD

UNDERWOOD

Suspects Marcus Underwood, the victim’s stepfather, and Lorine McMillan, the victim’s mother, were arrested and charged Monday with torture, willful abuse of a child.

Underwood, 36, of Selma, has also been charged with two counts of failure to pay child support. He is currently in Dallas County Jail with bonds totaling $19,500.

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McMillan, 26, of Selma made the $15,000 bond she was issued.

The Selma Police Department responded to the 1800 Block of Old Orrville Road Monday in reference to an 8-year-old child with severe bruises and swelling from a beating by his parents, according to Lt. Curtis Muhannad with the Selma Police Department.

When officers arrived at the scene, they were advised that the child had been left in the custody of his stepfather.

McMILLAN

McMILLAN

“The child complained of being beaten by his stepfather, which led to the investigation,” Muhannad said.

After the victim was examined, Selma’s Special Victim Unit made contact with Underwood and McMillan.

“It is believed that a belt was used to cruelly beat the child,” Muhannad said.

The child was transported to Vaughan Regional Medical Center’s emergency room for treatment.

As of Tuesday, the victim’s relatives will serve as caretakers.

Torture, willful abuse of a child is a Class C felony.

Underwood and McMillan could be facing from one to 10 years in prison and up to $15,000 in fines if convicted of the charges.