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LINCOLN HEIGHTS, LOS ANGELES () — A woman was arrested in Lincoln Heights on Wednesday for allegedly abusing three children under the age of 12.
Sonia Marquez, 52, was arrested in the 3000 block of Main Street and later charged with multiple felony counts of child abuse.
Investigators say she is related to the alleged victims, three girls ages 9, 11 and 12, but it was not immediately clear how they are related.
The Los Angeles Police Department said it received a call at about 5:45 p.m. Wednesday regarding a possible child abuse victim.
The caller told police the girls had allegedly been locked inside a dog cage, according to the LAPD.
It was not immediately clear how the girls were able to seek help or contact police.
Investigators determined the girls suffered severe neglect while in Marquez’s care.
Marquez was arrested Wednesday, booked Thursday and later charged with two felony counts of torture and three felony counts of child abuse likely to cause great bodily injury or death.
According to the felony complaint, the alleged abuse occurred between Feb. 1, 2026, and Sept. 2, 2026.
Marquez is being held on $2.075 million bail. Her preliminary hearing setting and bail review hearing are scheduled for Oct. 7.
The Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services released the following statement:
“We understand the public’s interest in children who may have received supportive services from the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).
State laws prohibit DCFS from commenting on possible involvement with families. These confidentiality laws are in place to safeguard the privacy and dignity of children and families while sensitive and complex family matters are addressed.”
Authorities said there are no outstanding suspects and that the investigation is ongoing.
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