Westmoreland County Grandmother and Mother Face Charges in Alarming Child Abuse Case

Child Abuse Allegations Surface in Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania

Authorities in Westmoreland County have brought disturbing charges against Elma Ritenour, 68, and Mary Shroyer, 48, following accusations of prolonged abuse against a child. The case has shed light on a deeply troubling situation involving physical harm, neglect, and coercion.

Details of the Abuse Emerge

According to the Westmoreland County District Attorney’s Office, the child was diagnosed with a concussion in December after allegedly being struck and pushed. Additionally, the child was found to have bed bug bites and visible bruises.

The child reported being allowed to shower only once a week, denied adequate food and access to a bathroom, and forced to sleep on the floor without blankets—conditions that suggest severe neglect and mistreatment.

Psychological Abuse and Manipulation

The child also shared that they were ordered to stand in a corner for three days as punishment and threatened with beatings for sitting or falling asleep. Even more disturbingly, Ritenour and Shroyer are alleged to have coached the child to lie to law enforcement, obstructing the investigation into their actions.

Legal Actions and Community Reaction

Both women were arraigned and released on $25,000 unsecured bail, a decision that has raised concerns among advocates for child protection.

“This is a deeply troubling case that underscores how essential it is for abuse reports to be taken seriously and acted upon swiftly,” said Ashley DiLiberto, Esq., a leading child abuse attorney with Survivors of Abuse PA.

The Role of Mandated Reporting in Child Safety

This case reinforces the vital importance of mandated reporters—such as teachers, healthcare workers, and social workers—who are often the first line of defense in protecting at-risk children. Without the bravery of the child and the alert actions of the reporter, this case may have gone undetected.

Legal Support for Child Abuse Survivors in Pennsylvania

If you or someone you know is facing child abuse, it’s essential to know that help is available. Survivors have the legal right to seek justice, even in cases where the abuse occurred within the family.

At Survivors of Abuse PA, Ashley DiLiberto, Esq. offers compassionate, confidential legal counsel to victims and their families. She and her team are committed to holding abusers accountable and providing survivors the support they need to heal.

To speak with Ashley DiLiberto, Esq. about your legal options, call (267) 502-9090 or visit https://survivorsofabusepa.com for a free, confidential consultation. No survivor should have to face abuse or its aftermath alone.

Source:

ABC27 News