A woman was taken into custody on Saturday in Miami-Dade County on allegations of child abuse after reportedly biting her eight-year-old daughter. This incident occurred while she was free on bail for a prior charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. The woman, identified as Josephine Garcia, age 27, was apprehended by officers from the Miami-Dade County Sheriff's Department (M-DCSO) at a homeless shelter located at 28205 SW 124 Court. The official report categorized the attack as domestic violence without causing serious bodily harm.
Garcia was booked shortly after midnight on Sunday and appeared before Circuit Judge Charlie Johnson, who set her bail at $3,000. This is not Garcia's first encounter with violence; on February 2, she was arrested for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Additionally, in 2018, she faced a similar charge from the Miami Police, though that case was later dismissed by prosecutors. The recent incidents are under the purview of Judge Cristina Miranda, who has issued restraining orders against the alleged victims.
Rising Concerns Over Child Abuse in South Florida
This latest case of alleged child abuse arises amidst increasing public concern over incidents of child neglect and mistreatment in South Florida. On April 10, a two-year-old girl was rescued in South Beach after being found naked, crying, and cold in her apartment while her parents overdosed on narcotics. The Florida Department of Children and Families warned that the child could have died if not for the swift police intervention.
In another distressing incident that outraged the community, Orlando Hernandez, 29, was arrested in March for allegedly torturing his four-year-old son. The child reportedly described the abuse by using a doll to demonstrate what happened. Hernandez remains in custody without bail, facing charges of aggravated child abuse.
Frequently Asked Questions About Child Abuse Cases in Miami-Dade
What charges is Josephine Garcia facing?
Josephine Garcia is facing charges of child abuse after reportedly biting her eight-year-old daughter, as well as a prior charge of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
What actions did the judge take in Garcia's case?
Circuit Judge Charlie Johnson set Garcia's bail at $3,000.
How prevalent are child abuse cases in South Florida?
There is growing concern over child abuse and neglect cases in South Florida, with recent incidents highlighting the urgent need for intervention and protection measures.