Woman Charged with Indecent Liberties, Child Abuse

UPDATED 3:16 p.m.

Deputies have charged a Whiteville woman after she allegedly sexually assaulted her daughter and threatened her life.

Rosalina Baena, 46, of 857 Gore Trailer Rd., Whiteville, was arrested Thursday. She is charged with indecent liberties with a child, felony child abuse inflicting serious injury, and communicating threats. She was held under $50,000 secured bond.

Baena is alleged to have sexually abused the girl, who is 12, and injured her. Baena then allegedly threatened to kill the girl.

The sheriff’s office said in a press release that detective were called to a Jefferson Street home Oct. 5 to a case of possible child abuse.

“Statements were obtained from multiple witnesses and the juvenile victim was transported to Columbus Regional for evaluation,” the release said.

Detectives with the Special Victims Unit worked with Carolyn’s Kaleidoscope Child Advocacy Center to gather additional evidence, the release said.

“Our Special Victims Unit works tirelessly to investigate sensitive cases incoming children and families,” said Sheriff Bill Rogers. “Their dedication ensures that victims receive justice and the protection they deserve.

“I want to thank our investigators and our partners with the Department of Social Services and Carolyn’s Kaleidoscope for their professionalism and compassion throughout this case.”