A Missouri woman faces serious charges after allegations surfaced of attempting to exchange a foster child for an “exotic animal,” culminating in the teenager’s recovery in Texas following years of reported abuse.
Brenda Ruth Deutsch, 70, was arrested this week and is currently being held on three felony counts: child abuse, neglect, and endangerment. The case began when a missing foster child was located in Texas, according to court records.
While the teenager’s precise age remains undisclosed, documents confirm she is under 17.
The investigation initiated after Deutsch requested permission to take the girl on a visit to a friend residing in Texas. Five days later, an anonymous tip alerted the Missouri Department of Social Services Children’s Division to claims of physical and emotional abuse perpetrated by Deutsch.
During questioning, the victim described repeated instances of assault involving “a lot of different things,” including a paddle and shoes. She recounted attempts to minimize the impact of these strikes, stating she would lay on the floor hoping to lessen the blows.
The court documents further detail alarming behavior, including the seizure of the teenager’s clothing and threats to harm her if she did not remain silent. A witness alerted authorities that Deutsch had arranged a trip for the girl, only to leave her in an unsanitary home with multiple exotic animals.
Authorities discovered a rumor suggesting the child had been offered as a trade for an animal. According to court documents, the victim stated that Deutsch informed her friend in Texas they could retain custody of the teenager, but “Deutsch will be keeping the check.”
The teenager is now safe and receiving care from child protective services in Texas.
Reports indicate Deutsch has fostered over 200 children throughout her career. Her bond is currently set at $250,000.
Here’s a summary of the key findings:
- Allegations of physical and emotional abuse
- Threats involving harm to the child
- Seizure of belongings and restrictions on speech
- Arrangement for the child’s travel to Texas under questionable circumstances
- The reported trade involving an exotic animal
Attempts to reach the Lincoln County Prosecutor’s Office and the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department for comment were unsuccessful. The Missouri Department of Social Services also did not provide immediate responses.
“This case highlights a disturbing pattern of abuse within the foster care system, emphasizing the vital need for rigorous oversight and support for vulnerable children,” one advocate stated.
