A 55-year-old Texas woman, Rose Anderson, has been arrested on charges of unlawful restraint and child injury after allegedly locking a seven-year-old girl in a dog cage beneath a Christmas tree. The incident occurred around December 13 at Anderson’s apartment in Houston, where she is accused of restraining the child with zip ties, duct-taping her mouth, and physically assaulting her while confined in the cage. The young girl was reportedly deprived of food, water, and bathroom access, causing her to urinate on herself.

Anderson reportedly justified the abuse as a means of disciplining the child for “her behavior at school.” Following her court hearing, Anderson posted a $10,000 bond and was released from Harris County Jail. The child is now in foster care, receiving the care and support she needs. The Texas Department of Family Services is investigating the allegations alongside law enforcement.

The incident came to light following an “electronic tip,” and has left the community in shock. Neighbor Lonnie Hatchet remarked, “What happened to time out? Take away one of the Christmas gifts, but not the dog cage – come on!” Anderson’s next court appearance is set for January 6.