WEST CHESTER, PA — The Chester County District Attorney’s Office announced additional charges this week in the tragic case of 12-year-old Malinda Hoagland’s death. Her father, Rendell Hoagland, 52, and his partner, Cindy Warren, 45, of West Caln Township, now face charges of First Degree Murder, Second Degree Murder, Third Degree Murder, Involuntary Servitude, and other related offenses. Both defendants remain in custody without bail at Chester County Prison. Prosecutors have stated their intention to seek the death penalty.
Chester County District Attorney Christopher L. de Barrena-Sarobe explained the gravity of the new charges. “Information from the Coroner’s Office and medical experts demonstrates a years-long pattern of extensive torture and abuse. Moreover, text messages and hundreds of videos show that the Defendants engaged in a calculated and systematic method of terrorizing, manipulating, and dehumanizing Malinda. We will get justice for Malinda,” he said.
The latest criminal complaint by Chester County Detectives reveals that Malinda was admitted to Paoli Hospital’s Trauma Unit on May 4, 2024. Her father, Rendell Hoagland, had called 911, stating that Malinda struck a tree while riding her bicycle at around 12:30 a.m. However, emergency personnel and medical staff noted that Malinda was severely emaciated and had numerous injuries. She died during surgery later that evening.
An autopsy conducted by a forensic pathologist concluded that Malinda’s death resulted from starvation and multiple blunt force injuries. At the time of her death, she weighed only 50 pounds and had approximately 75 bruises, contusions, and pressure sores on her body.
The investigation uncovered extensive evidence of abuse. Videos and still images found on the defendants’ cellphones and security cameras showed Malinda being shackled, physically abused, and subjected to forced stress positions. Text messages between the defendants revealed that Malinda was punished for minor infractions such as forgetting chores, “stealing” food, and not smiling during online school sessions.
The defendants reportedly discussed concealing Malinda’s injuries from concerned family members and mandated reporters. School records indicated that Malinda had numerous absences and was eventually removed from in-person schooling in late 2023 to attend cyber school. Despite the absences, there is no indication that the schools failed to meet legal reporting requirements.
Chester County Detectives are leading the investigation, with First Assistant District Attorney Erin O’Brien serving as the prosecutor. The public is reminded that suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.